250 to 250: 14. Ellis Island, Narrated by Ken Burns

 

Heather Cox Richardson and 250 to 250: Ellis Island, Narrated by Ken Burns

Filmmaker Ken Burns explores the legacy of Ellis Island, the immigration entry station that processed millions of immigrants coming to America.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, many immigrants came to the United States from Europe.

• Many arrived by ship in New York Harbor.
• They often saw the Statue of Liberty as they entered America.
• Third-class passengers went to Ellis Island for inspection.
• From 1892 to 1954, more than 12 million immigrants passed through Ellis Island.

Immigrants received medical and legal inspections.

• Most immigrants were allowed to enter the United States.
• People with serious illnesses might be sent to a hospital.
• Some immigrants were sent back to their home countries.
• About 2% of immigrants were not allowed to enter.

Ellis Island became a symbol of hope and opportunity.

• Many immigrants came to America to build a better life.
• Their hard work helped shape the history and culture of the United States.

POP Interview and Civics Quiz:

• N-400 Part 1:01  Explain how you are elibgible to become U.S. citizen?
• USCIS 100:95.   Where is the Statue of Liberty?*
• USCIS 128:124. The Nation’s first motto was “E Pluribus Unum.” What does that mean?

Family Fun

• ColorKo: Ellis Island Gateway to America Coloring Page
• iCivics: Immigration Nation online game
• KQED: Ken Burns in the Classroom: The Statue of Liberty (and Ellis Island) lesson plans
• NPS: Ellis Island Expedition Series
• NPS: Ellis Island Junior Ranger Booklet
• PBS: Ken Burns' Statue of Liberty (and Ellis Island) (stream online or borrow it from the library)
• USCIS: USCIS and the Legacy of Ellis Island