What was life like in the late 1800s for middle class families

In the late 19th century about 80% of the population of the population was working class. In order to be considered middle class, you had to have at least one servant. Most servants were female. (Male servants were much more expensive because men were paid much higher wages). Throughout the century 'service' was a major employer of women.

the constitution of the united states gave congress the absolute authority over immigration laws

roosevelt believed that in light of the country's recent military successes, it was unnecessary to use force to achieve foreign policy goals, so long as the military could threaten force. this belief, and his strategy of “speaking softly and carrying a big stick,” shaped much of roosevelt's foreign policy.