This essay explores change in the United States through the optic of migration. Migration has been a prominent factor in the history of the United States since the beginning, especially because of its empire of trade, as described by historian Donna Gabaccia. In addition, migrations are among the great topics of conflict and debate in the United States today. The essay gives an overview of migration and “immigrant foreign relations” from 1800 to the present, showing how migrants came gradually to be seen as a threat. As a comparison, migration since 1800 for the world as a whole is shown to be both similar to and different from migration to the United States. To explain the politics of migration, the essay describes popular culture as a global and national force, showing how it has gradually tended to give support to migrants yet also leads to anti-migrant movements. The conclusion considers the United States and the incoming Trump administration in the wake of the 2016 election. Migrant populations are under increased threat but, most likely, have the strength and alliances to retain their current position of importance within the United States.
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