Overall, between 1800 and 1919 more than 7 million Germans immigrated to the United States with the majority settling in the central part of the country, including Missouri. From the 1830s to the 1860s Missouri’s population almost doubled with every decade, the majority being German immigrants.
The decision to leave one’s family, friends, relatives, home and village was a very difficult one. While the reasons are many, here are some of the key ones:
1. The feudal system lasted well into the 19th century. In many cases citizens could not marry, travel, relocate or emigrate without permission of their prince and later civil authority.
2. In the early 1800s, in the poor areas of south and central Germany, restrictions were put on marriages in an attempt to limit growth because of overpopulation and an economic depression.
3. Struggle for power and influence between Prussia and Austria continued until 1871, with Prussia gaining more control of independent states. The result was an unstable political climate.
4. Permitted religions were determined by the ruling prince. These religious restrictions caused some to leave for religious convictions.
5. Ordinary citizens were burdened by a system of rules and law established by guilds, aristocracy, churches and government.
6. After the Napoleonic Wars ended in 1815, a flood of foreign imports penetrated the German market making it hard for the German industry to compete.
7. Ordinary citizens were unable to borrow money to buy land in Germany until after 1850.
8. Farms became so small that they were unable to sustain families.
Source: Some of the Key Reasons Why, Centuries Ago, Germans Immigrated to America | | emissourian.com
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