Immigration to America is often a decision made with the goal of discovering a better life for a family or individual. America's founding ideals are usually what attracts foreigners to move to the United States. Stories about America being the “land of opportunity” continued to persuade people to immigrate. Although 20th century immigration is very different from recent immigration, the underlying reasons for moving to the United States are generally quite similar. Anna Romano was 24 when she, her husband Gino, and her expected daughter moved to the United States from Ponza, Italy. United States in 1971. His sister-in-law was the first in her family to move to the United States, hoping to find an opportunity for her family there. After hearing great things about the United States, she decided it would be best for her family to immigrate. Similar to the America Letters, which were letters from friends and relatives that convinced foreigners to immigrate in the 20th century, she was persuaded to believe that America was the best place to raise a family. Anna and Gino were informed of the vast amount of opportunities and jobs in America. They were fascinated by the stories and the great things they were told. The original plan was to move to America, earn enough money to be well off in Italy, and then return to their home country. However, after arriving in America, they eventually settled down and stayed to raise their family. Before leaving for America, Anna and Gino were interviewed by Italian government officials. They were asked questions such as why they were going to America, who they would be staying with, and whether or not they had a job while waiting for their arrival. This is similar to 20th century immigrants who were asked various questions and given...... middle of paper ...... true to their culture and many of their old ways of life , she considers herself more American than Italian. According to Anna, “moving to the United States gave me more opportunities and changed the way I raised my family, which is why I consider myself an American. » She believes that immigration is beneficial for those seeking better opportunities and a brighter future, and that current immigration laws should remain unchanged. Immigration has undergone many changes since the 20th century. However, many of the motivations behind immigration and adaptation to a new culture and way of life have remained the same. Works Cited Hart, Diane, Ms. “Through Ellis Island and Angel Island: The Immigrant Experience.” Living history! In pursuit of American ideals. Palo Alto: Teacher Curriculum Institute, 2008. 187+. Print.Romano, Anna M. “Recent Immigration.” Personal interview. November 11. 2013.