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Movers and Shakers

Immigrants have shaped American life in innumerable ways, contributing to the economy, politics, science, technology, arts and culture.  Those who came to Boston were no exception. In fact, the city’s many universities, industries, and cultural institutions have long been magnets for people across the world seeking opportunities and outlets for their ambition and talents. But not all immigrant movers and shakers came through these channels; some arrived with very little and forged their own futures as business and political figures, artists, writers and activists. And some of their children became important leaders in protecting and aiding immigrant communities.  Here are a few of their stories in Greater Boston:

Mary Antin, 1881-1949

Mary Antin, 1881-1949

Born in Polotsk, in the Belarus region Russia, Mary Antin was a writer and advocate for immigrants. (Click to read more).

Hagop Bogigian, 1856-1931

Hagop Bogigian, 1856-1931

Born in 1856, Hagop Bogigian was an Armenian rug merchant and philanthropist in Boston. (Click to read more)

Andrew Carney, 1794-1864

Andrew Carney, 1794-1864

Andrew Carney was an Irish businessman and philanthropist who founded Carney Hospital, the first Catholic hospital in New England. (Click to read more)

Caroline Chang, 1940-2018

Caroline Chang, 1940-2018

Caroline Wong Chang spent much of her personal and professional life working for the Asian-American community. (Click to read more).

Solomon Carter Fuller, 1872-1953

Solomon Carter Fuller, 1872-1953

Solomon Carter Fuller was the first black psychiatrist in America, who engaged in groundbreaking Alzheimer’s research. (Click to read more)

Kahlil Gibran, 1883-1931

Kahlil Gibran, 1883-1931

A Syrian immigrant who spent his early years in Boston, Kahlil Gibran was an artist and poet who authored works in both Arabic and English. (Click to read more)

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