Ways of Thinking about Immigration

A Greek immigrant, ca early 20th century, dressed as an American Cowboy

In the 19th and 20th centuries, we developed many different theories about immigration - some of them might be familiar to you, some might be new. One early theory was called the melting-pot: it was believed that immigrant groups would "amalgamate" or blend biologically and culturally into a new and distinct group of people who would all be known simply as "Americans". This idea is generally consider to be out of date, even though we may share a common language and many common beliefs.

Here's another theory: to varying degrees, immigrant groups living in the United States experience a process of acculturation (which is sometimes called "Americanization"). Until recently, it was widely expressed that an "ideal immigrant" should become Americanized as soon as possible. In other words, they should cast off almost all traces of their "old country" in terms of personal, social and cultural differences.

However, many of these "old country" traits are still part of our lives; this complex mix of long-standing traditions makes Indiana unique. Our immigrant heritage is alive in regional celebrations, in our different styles of dress, our religions, and even in treasured family recipes. This perspective is called pluralism: celebrating and accepting our immigrant roots - our ethnic diversity - as an integral part of who we are as Americans.