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In the 18th century, Benjamin Franklin expressed concerns about German immigrants in America, fearing they would not adopt American customs, with only about 150,000 Germans emigrating by 1820. The harrowing journey for these migrants included severe overcrowding and illnesses, often leading to numerous deaths during the voyage, and many arrived only to be sold as bonded laborers. By the 19th century, failed harvests and a lack of opportunities prompted around 6 million Germans to emigrate to the New World, as the American continent rekindled their hope for a better future.

Benjamin Franklin's 18th-century remarks about German immigrants reflect concerns about cultural integration, as he questioned their ability to adopt American language and customs; at the time, around 150,000 Germans had migrated to America by 1820. The journey was grueling, often resulting in many deaths from disease, and upon arrival, those who could afford the passage had to work as bonded laborers, with families sometimes torn apart. Meanwhile, many Germans also emigrated to Russia following an invitation from Catherine the Great, but by the 19th century, about 6 million Germans had moved to America, driven by economic hardship and failed harvests.