9781422270233

CHAPTER

A NEW WORLD Immigration has been a cornerstone of the United States since its inception. With each new wave of immigrants , our country has grown stronger. It has also become more diverse and more vibrant. Even still, the journey can be challenging for teenagers new to America. From navigating a new educational system to learning a new language, immigrant teens’ barriers can be significant. Defining Immigration Immigration is when people leave their homeland to live elsewhere, such as in another country. Immigration has been a major part of the United States’ history and culture. Colonists, refugees, and immigrants have all come to the US over the centuries to find a better life for themselves and their families. According to the Migration Policy Institute, as of 2021, about 45.3 million immigrants live in the United States. This represents a little more than 13 percent of the country’s total population. Of these immigrants, about 77 percent are in the country legally. The remaining 23 percent are undocumented or here illegally, meaning they do not have legal authorization to live or work in the country, which is required for all non-citizens.

7