The Transformation of Immigration into the United States during the Era of the American Revolution

Aaron S. Fogleman

During the era of the American Revolution, a fundamental transformation occurred in the nature of immigration into the United States. Before the Revolution perhaps nearly 80 percent of immigrants came to America in servitude--as slaves, convicts, or indentured servants. By the early nineteenth century, nearly all immigrants were free passengers. The Revolution itself more than anything else led to this transformation. It ended the forced migration of African slaves and British convicts, and, although the exact causes of the demise of indentured servitude are still debated, the Revolution seems to have provided the social and cultural framework that eventually led to its collapse.

[WP #96002]