Making The Foreigner – Public Opinion Toward Polish Migrants

This presentation examines the evolution of public opinion toward Polish Galician immigrants during the years of peak immigration, specifically focusing on the role of media outlets and legislation in shaping societal attitudes. Drawing from a variety of primary sources including newspapers, political speeches, and legislative records, the study analyzes how immigrant communities were portrayed in the media and how these portrayals influenced public perception and policy decisions. It will also explore impact of key legislative acts on the experiences of Polish Galician immigrants, assessing how legal frameworks both reflected and reinforced public sentiment. By tracking these shifts over time, this study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the intersections between media, law, and immigration history on the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries.