What misconception did many people hold about the contribution of immigrants to American society?

The view that immigrants were seen as detrimental to social stability reflects a longstanding misconception in American society. Throughout history, various waves of immigration have been met with resistance and suspicion from segments of the population. Many people believed that immigrants posed a threat to job availability, cultural norms, and social cohesion. This belief was often rooted in xenophobia and economic fear, leading to negative stereotypes that painted immigrants as potential disruptors of order rather than valuable contributors to society.

In reality, immigrants have historically played crucial roles in shaping American culture, economy, and society. They brought diverse perspectives, skills, and labor that spurred innovation and fueled economic growth. However, the misconception that they threatened social stability overshadowed these contributions in the minds of many at different points in history, such as during periods of economic downturn or cultural change.

Other options suggest differing perspectives. The idea that immigrants primarily contributed to technological advancements overlooks the variety of roles they played, while the notion that they mainly worked in skilled professions fails to acknowledge that many engaged in labor-intensive jobs. Lastly, the belief that they were universally accepted glosses over the significant resistance and discrimination faced by immigrant groups throughout American history.