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"From the colonial period to 1882, immigration into the United States was essentially free and unrestricted. Millions of immigrants poured into the country, helping to transform a peripheral outpost of the British Empire into one of the most populous and prosperous nations in the world. Immigration always generated opposition, however, and nativist movements regularly appeared in American life. "

"Interviews with Today's Immigrants

"November 12, 2009, marks the 55th anniversary of the closing of Ellis Island, a location that will forever be linked to the notion of the American dream. From 1892 to 1954, over 12 million immigrants passed through Ellis Island. Located in New York Harbor, the site served as a way station for those coming to America from Europe, hoping to build a new life in a new land. "

Webguide - "The exploration and settling of the American West began well before the Civil War. Although it was slowed down by the War, it resumed again in earnest after the conflict ended. Learn about essential elements in the settlement of the West, like the transcontinental railroad, the fur trade, immigrants and the Gold Rush, for example."