Aliens or Americans?

At the start of the twentieth century the United States was experiencing a flood of newcomers from every corner of the globe. This book examines who these immigrants are, where they come from, and what their arrival means for a nation built on liberty and Protestant values. Written for a youthful audience, it frames immigration as both a test and a chance for Christian outreach, urging readers to see the newcomers as potential members of the American story rather than merely strangers. The author argues that the way the church responds now will shape the character of future citizenship.

Packed with illustrations of Ellis Island, tenements, and maps of settlement patterns, the text brings the era to life while presenting statistics on nationality, literacy, and employment. Throughout, the tone remains earnest, asking whether love of country and love of Christ can guide a compassionate response. Young readers are invited to consider their own role in welcoming and educating the “aliens,” and to view evangelism as part of the broader American mission. The work balances sober facts with hopeful optimism about the possibilities of integration.