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Amir Raed AP History 6/7* 1/4/02 Gangs of New York Essay Prior to seeing The Gangs of New York and reading the excerpt from Cary, I was completely oblivious to the fact that riots occurred on such a wide scale in 19th century America. The formation of separate factions, most notably the Nativists and the Irish immigrants, led to extreme animosity between the groups. This hatred for one another’s values and beliefs eventually led to the bloody battles that took place frequently. This initial separation of the Nativists and their immigrant counterparts carried on through generation after generation. Peaceable negotiations between the parties often failed to accomplish any agreements, which of course would lead to more bloodshed between the rival groups. Disagreements between the “gangs” were often in regards to issues such as assimilation, political power, national identity, and work. The lack of immediate assimilation into society by the Irish immigrants was one integral reason as to why separate factions were formed. As seen in The Gangs of New York five distinct “gangs” were formed as a result of Irish integration into society. The Nativist’s, led by Bill the Butcher, are not fond of the Irish immigrants presence in America.
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