From Hungary to Ecuador in the 20th Century : European Immigration to South America and its Modern Implications

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to analyze the nature of European migration to South America in the early 20th century, in particular by using an example of a young women’s journey from Hungary to Ecuador. Often the United States is seen as the sole country in the western world where immigrants fled to in the early 20th century; however, I wish to paint a more advanced picture. Through analyzing a series of letters written by a young woman in South America back to Ecuador, I hope to paint that picture sufficiently so people can understand the nature of her journey. These letters span over two decades and describe the circumstances of which she was placed in while attempting to find a better life in South America. Concluding, I hope to show that the millions of people that left Europe in the 20th century not all came to the United States. Lastly, I want the readers’ to understand the real stories of immigration in the 20th century. Although not glamorous, we must understand the truths of individual’s journeys and how today we are all connected as a result of these Trans-Atlantic crossings.