What major change occurred in U.S. immigration patterns after 1890?

The major change in U.S. immigration patterns after 1890 was a significant shift towards immigrants from southern and eastern Europe. Prior to this period, the majority of immigrants came from northern and western European countries, such as Germany, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. However, post-1890, there was a marked rise in the number of individuals emigrating from southern and eastern Europe, including nations like Italy, Poland, and Russia.

This shift can be attributed to several factors, including political unrest, economic hardship, and religious persecution in these regions, which prompted many people to seek better opportunities in the United States. The arrival of these new immigrant groups significantly changed the cultural and demographic landscape of the country, as they brought diverse languages, traditions, and customs that enriched American society.

While other options mention factors like increased immigration from Asia, decreased immigration from Europe, and restrictions on skilled workers, these were not the defining characteristic of the immigration patterns during this time frame. Instead, the influx of southern and eastern European immigrants played a crucial role in shaping the immigration narrative of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.