As anti-immigrant rhetoric resurfaces in the United States, some politicians are calling for an outright ban on immigration, painting immigrants as criminal hoards. However, immigrants have historically made significant contributions to the country in various fields such as business, sports, arts, and academia. Despite making up only 14% of the population, immigrants have founded over one-third of new businesses and over half of startups valued over $1 billion. For example, Nvidia, a semiconductor maker with a market cap of over $2 trillion, was founded by an immigrant.
Throughout American history, there have been moments when the value of immigrants was called into question. In the 1850s, The Know Nothing Party targeted German and Irish immigrants, while the Immigration Act of 1924 reduced immigration from Southern and Eastern Europe. Today, voters cite immigration as the most important problem facing the country, with many calling for more action to stop illegal immigration, which has started to impact support for legal immigration.
While securing borders is essential, it is crucial not to overlook the competitive advantage that comes from attracting smart and entrepreneurial people to the U.S. Stories like that of Andrew Grove, Jan Koum, and Derrick Rossi highlight the exceptional contributions immigrants have made. Grove, the longtime president and chairman of Intel, fled Communist Hungary to become a key figure in the semiconductor industry. Koum, co-founder of WhatsApp, overcame poverty in Soviet Ukraine to create a billion-dollar mobile messaging app. Rossi, co-founder of Moderna, developed mRNA vaccines that played a crucial role in the rapid development of the Covid-19 vaccine.
These stories are just a few examples of the countless immigrants who have found success in America. In addition to business, immigrants have excelled in sports, science, and other fields. Immigrants have also been recognized with a significant percentage of Nobel Prizes in physics, chemistry, and medicine. The United States remains a desirable destination for immigrants, who are looking to pursue their dreams and contribute to the country’s success. Maintaining this openness to immigrants will be crucial in determining whether the 21st century remains an American-led century.
In conclusion, anti-immigrant rhetoric threatens to overshadow the valuable contributions immigrants have made to the United States throughout history. While concerns about illegal immigration are valid, it is important to remember the significant role immigrants play in shaping the country’s economy, culture, and innovation. Stories of immigrants like Grove, Koum, and Rossi highlight the resilience, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit that many immigrants bring to America. Embracing immigrants and their contributions will be essential in ensuring the country’s continued success and leadership in the 21st century.
