Eras of Migration - Global Boston

Eras of Migration

Click on one of the boxes to below to explore different time periods of Boston’s immigration history. Or see the timeline below to learn about specific events related to immigrants.

First Wave, 1820-1880

The Irish predominated in this first mass wave of immigration, as Boston evolved from a bustling port town to a thriving industrial city.

A photograph of the bow of a ship taking immigrants to Boston. Many individuals gather at the railings on the sides of the ship as it comes into port.

Second Wave, 1880-1921

Booming industrial growth in this period attracted thousands of new workers and their families from Russia, Italy, China, and other locales.

Restriction Era, 1921-1965

Following the restrictive and discriminatory legislation of the 1920s, this era saw the lowest levels of immigration since the early nineteenth century.

Many men and women stand with their right hand over their heart, holding an American flag and naturalization papers, in the process of taking their oath of citizenship. People are gathered on the floor of Faneuil Hall, but some too in a second-floor gallery.

Global Era, 1965-present

Changing refugee policies and the 1965 Immigration Act ushered in a new global era of migration, giving greater Boston a strikingly diverse population.