Immigration Changes Society
Before 1880 Most immigrants came to West Virginia from Northern European countries,Germany,Switzerland,Ireland,England,Scotland,Belgium,France,Denmark,and Sweden. The new immigrants spoke a variety of languages and followed dif- ferent religions. It was during this time, for example, that the Catholic Church grew in the state. A number of people who had lived in the area for some time did not appreciate the newcomers. After 1880, however, the ethnicity (the ethnic composition) of the state changed, mainly because of changes in industry. Industries, including coal, steel, glass, oil and gas, and nonfuel
minerals, grew after the Civil War. Most of the immigrants who arrived in the United States after the Civil War were from countries in southern and eastern Europe.
minerals, grew after the Civil War. Most of the immigrants who arrived in the United States after the Civil War were from countries in southern and eastern Europe.