Between 1860 and 1910, America began to see an increase in the number of immigrants coming to America for a better life, religious freedom, and a brighter future for their families. It is estimated that about twenty-three million immigrants arrived in the United States during this time. In an effort to help students realize the impact of this time period, the students will be researching their own backgrounds to learn more about their family's history. This series of lesson plans allow for students to explore their family history and history of their communities.