The Bowery Boys: New York City History The Last Ships From Hamburg: An Immigration Story
Nov 28, 2025
Stephen Ujifusa, an expert in maritime and immigration history, unveils the compelling story of over 2 million Jews fleeing Eastern Europe between the late 1890s and early 1920s. He reveals how three influential figures shaped this migration: Albert Ballin, Jacob Schiff, and J.P. Morgan. Ujifusa explores the emotional journey of these immigrants, the innovations in ship travel, and the challenges faced upon arrival in America. He also reflects on his personal connection to the story and draws parallels to current immigration debates.
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Mass Exodus Relied On Cross-Border Networks
- Over two million Eastern European Jews fled to America between the 1890s and early 1920s seeking safety and opportunity.
- Stephen Ujifusa shows this mass movement depended on networks of businessmen, bankers, and philanthropists linking Europe and New York.
Grandmother's Silence Sparked The Project
- Stephen Ujifusa recounts his grandmother's silence about the old country and how that spurred his research.
- He frames the book as a personal return to family history and forgotten immigrant stories.
Emigration Was Often A Life-or-Death Decision
- Russian Jews faced state-sanctioned antisemitism and pogroms under Alexander III and Nicholas II.
- Persecution, forced conscription, and official hostility made emigration a life-or-death choice.
