“The American Dream is that any man or woman, despite his or her background, can change their circumstances and rise as high as they are willing to work” (Fabrizio Moreira). Ecuadorian politician, Fabrizio Moreira, recognizes this widespread idea and the primary criteria that embody the overall picture. It is believed that if one is given the freedom and opportunity, he or she has the ability to work to achieve their own goals. In the early 1900s, this idea of achieving the ‘American Dream’ was quite prevalent throughout the United States. Immigrants came from all around the globe to simply obtain the opportunity to change their quality of life and maintain a sense of freedom. However, due to varying social, political, and economic conditions …show more content…
The major increase in immigrants throughout the time period was recognized by many, and it often resulted in varying outcomes for native citizens and the incoming individuals. Douglas S Massey, author and professor, wrote, "As anyone who walks the streets of America's largest cities knows, there has been a profound transformation of immigration to the United States” (Massey). Massey goes on to say that “Not only are there more immigrants, but increasingly they speak languages and bear cultures that are quite different from those brought by European immigrants in the past” (Massey). The amount of immigrants in the country could not go unrecognized. The simple differences between languages and cultures made it evident when distinguishing native-born citizens and immigrants. However, even though the immigrants were clearly isolated throughout the country, these individuals were also praised for picking up their entire lives to move to the United States. The determined immigrants made their decision, did everything they could to make it to the country, and often never looked back. For example, Kevin Hillstrom references Marcus Eli Ravage in his book and describes Ravage’s feelings while immigrating when he wrote, "It is farewell forever. We are not setting out on a trip; we are emigrating” (Hillstrom). Hillstrom goes on to describe Ravage’s experience by writing, “For we have glimpsed a vision of America, and we start out resolved that, whatever the cost, we shall make her our own" (Hillstrom). Ravage described this idea of never looking back and making America his own at “whatever the cost”. Once he made it to America, he knew he was going to stay. Like Ravage, many other immigrants were fueled by American ideals and promises. They disconnected themselves from their