During the 19th century numerous immigrants from the Slavic nations made their way to the United States. The came from Poland, Slovakia, Croatia, Russia, Bohemia, Bulgaria, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Close to 90% came from the old Russian Empire and Austro-Hungarian monarchy. The majority were disaffected peasants who, despite the abolition of serfdom in 1848, were keen on leaving behind the peasant culture. Because they were required to buy their land and make regular payments many faced extreme poverty. Heavy taxation, political upheaval and required military service also turned many towards America. In Austria and Hungary the ruling body tried to discourage emigration by banning advertisements for America. Stills others were motivated to leave in the midst of the Austro-Prussian War of 1866. The map on the left highlights the Slavic nations from which many immigrated to America during the 19th century.
Many of the Bohemian immigrants were farmers but as the industrial revolution progressed in both Europe and America many came to the U.S. seeking factory jobs in the cities. There were also many day-laborers and servant girls who immigrated with the idea of making a certain amount of money and returning home. America was for many such a stark change for the better, few actually returned home to the old country.
The Croatians who immigrated were usually unhappy with Hungarian rule, tired of the long cruel winters and the generally underdeveloped nature of their environment. The Poles along with the Russians sought economic advantages in America. A stagnant economy coupled with the war-torn surroundings made America a most inviting destination. While many pursued careers as farmers in the Mid-west many others took up jobs in factories in the eastern cities.
Many of the Bohemian immigrants were farmers but as the industrial revolution progressed in both Europe and America many came to the U.S. seeking factory jobs in the cities. There were also many day-laborers and servant girls who immigrated with the idea of making a certain amount of money and returning home. America was for many such a stark change for the better, few actually returned home to the old country.
The Croatians who immigrated were usually unhappy with Hungarian rule, tired of the long cruel winters and the generally underdeveloped nature of their environment. The Poles along with the Russians sought economic advantages in America. A stagnant economy coupled with the war-torn surroundings made America a most inviting destination. While many pursued careers as farmers in the Mid-west many others took up jobs in factories in the eastern cities.