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Student Reading 14.3: 21st-Century Population
Immigrants have been coming to Ohio since before the 19th century. Many
immigrants traveled great distances across the Atlantic Ocean. They came here to
live in a free country where they could find opportunities to be successful. This
desire for opportunity still brings
immigrants to Ohio. For example, in
2008, Ohio’s population of immigrants
was nearly 390,000. African, Hispanic,
and Asian populations are the three
fastest growing immigrant populations
in the Unites States. Ohioans of Asian,
Pacific, European, and African descent
will all play a role in the future of the
state.
Many immigrants become U.S.
(Thomas Doyle Naturalization Record. Courtesy of the
Ohio History Connection.)
citizens by going through the
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Activity 14.3: 21st Century Population
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naturalization process. Naturalization is a process in which an immigrant can gain
citizenship. To qualify for naturalization, a person must be able to read and write
in English. They also need to have a basic understanding of American history and
government.
One ethnic group that is growing quickly in Ohio and the United States is
the Spanish-speaking population. The 2010 federal census showed that over
350,000 Hispanics call Ohio home. This number represents many different
Spanish-speaking cultures and countries. Most Hispanic immigrants who have
moved to the United States come from Mexico. Others moved here from the
islands of Puerto Rico and Cuba.
Another group of immigrants that has found a home in Ohio is the people
of Somalia. The nation of Somalia is on the eastern coast of Africa. It has been
without a stable central government since 1991. Refugees have left the country in
search of a place to live safely. Somali refugees have moved to cities throughout
the United States. The Columbus, Ohio, area has one of the highest populations of
Somali immigrants in the country.
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Activity 14.3: 21st Century Population
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Ohio’s population reflects the cultural diversity of the nation. Immigrants
are woven into the fabric of Ohio’s history and will continue to influence the
future.
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Activity 14.3: 21st Century Population
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Reading Comprehension Questions
1. Name three types of immigrant populations in Ohio:
1.___________________________________________________
2. ___________________________________________________
3.________________________________________ ___________
2. The Columbus, Ohio area has one of the highest populations of
__________________ immigrants in the country.
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Activity 14.3: 21st Century Population