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Title: Immigration, Assimilation, and U.S. Labor Market Inequality in Comparative-Historical Perspective

Citation Type: Conference Paper

Publication Year: 2011

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Abstract: Building upon labor market stratification and assimilation frameworks, this article examines how individual and structural forces intersect and shape the labor market experiences of early twentieth century immigrants and minorities. Given limited systematic comparative research in this vein, a case-centered comparative design is offered providing analytic leverage for identifying potential stratifying mechanisms linked to local variability. Utilizing U.S. Census microdata (1910-1930), I consider Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York Cityfour cities with unique racial and ethnic compositions, industrial makeup, and socio-political dynamics. Findings demonstrate assimilative behaviors and human capital benefit most immigrant groups and later generation ethnics relative to employment opportunities and returns. However, discernible group-level inequalities indicative of racial/ethnic-based constraint and closure persist within and across settings. Findings are discussed in light of their broader theoretical implications for understanding labor market inequality, incorporation, and mobility.

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Authors: Restifo, Salvatore J.

Conference Name: Annual Meetings of the Southern Sociological Society

Publisher Location: Jacksonville, FL

Data Collections: IPUMS USA

Topics: Labor Force and Occupational Structure, Migration and Immigration, Race and Ethnicity

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