Hard Times

In the mid 19th Century most European cities were overcrowded, with many large, poor families living in single rooms with poor hygiene. Often these people had come to the city for work in factories, however, in many cases there was not enough housing for everyone. The crowded conditions meant that disease was everywhere. Often the causes of the diseases were not known, and people living in these conditions had little hope of improving their lifestyles. Many children died before they reached their fifth birthday, and many more before the age of twenty.

At this time people were leaving Europe to start new lives in new countries thousands of kilometres away. They were taking great risks, and sea journeys took several months. When they arrived, conditions were primitive and there was little medical assistance, but still they considered it a worthwhile move.

1. Create a PMI chart to show the results of people moving to a new country?


2. Identify one main issue that people would face if they were to move, explain in your own words why you feel this would have been so significant? Explain your thoughts and opinions in full.