Immigration Lawyer Albany

Albany, New York’s Immigration History

• Albany, NY, the capital of New York State, has a long and diverse history of immigration. Since its founding as a Dutch trading post in 1614, Albany has welcomed immigrants from various regions and countries who have contributed to its economic, social and cultural development.

  The first wave of immigration to Albany consisted of Dutch and German settlers who arrived in the 17th and 18th centuries. They established farms, fur trade and commerce along the Hudson River. They were followed by English and Scottish immigrants who came after the British takeover of New Netherland in 1664. They brought with them their political and religious institutions and dominated the colonial administration. (https://www.timesunion.com/tuplus-local/article/Waves-of-immigration-shape-region-over-400-years-6924205.php)

  The second wave of immigration to Albany occurred in the 19th century, when Albany became a major transportation hub and industrial center. Irish immigrants came in large numbers during the Great Famine of the 1840s and 1850s. They worked on the Erie Canal, railroads and factories and faced discrimination and poverty. They were joined by German immigrants who fled political unrest and economic hardship in their homeland. They brought with them their skills, education and culture and established businesses, schools and churches. (https://nyheritage.org/exhibits/immigration)

  The third wave of immigration to Albany took place in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when millions of immigrants from Southern and Eastern Europe arrived in America through Ellis Island. Italian, Polish, Russian, Jewish, Greek and other immigrants settled in Albany’s ethnic neighborhoods, such as Arbor Hill, South End and North Albany. They worked in various industries, such as textiles, leather, brewing and construction. They also faced challenges such as language barriers, cultural differences and prejudice. (https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/newyork-immigration/)

  The fourth wave of immigration to Albany began after World War II and continues to this day. It includes immigrants from Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East who came for various reasons, such as education, employment, family reunification or refuge from war and persecution. They have enriched Albany’s diversity and vitality with their cuisines, arts, religions and traditions. (https://immigration-hero.com/immigration-lawyer-albany-ny/)

  According to the latest U.S. Census data (2019), Albany has a population of about 96,000 people. About 15% of them are foreign-born. The most common countries of origin are China (12%), India (10%), Dominican Republic (9%), Jamaica (7%) and Guyana (6%). The most common languages spoken at home other than English are Spanish (8%), Chinese (3%), Arabic (2%) and French (2%). (https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/albanycitynewyork/PST045219)

  Immigration is an integral part of Albany’s history and identity. It has shaped its economy, society and culture for over four centuries. It has also brought challenges and opportunities for both newcomers and natives. As Albany continues to welcome immigrants from around the world, it strives to be a city of inclusion, tolerance and opportunity for all.