1 gen 1848 anni - 1848 - A series of revolutions in Europe known collectively as the revolutions of 1848 caused many Europeans, especially northern Europeans, to flee their homelands and come to the United States. In a marked contrast from earlier periods, the immigrants were generally educated and skilled, fleeing due to the upending of the previous social order in Europe. This marked the beginning of a period of increased immigration from Northern and Western Europe.