July 4th Celebrates Independence and Immigration
In 1776, our founding fathers decided they would no longer be British subjects. Regardless of their roots in Holland, England, or Africa, every colonist became an American. The Fourth of July celebrates that monumental moment when a new nation was announced to the world, calling for immigrants.
The new nation promised a new system of government based on a Constitution, and the land a resources to prosper in that new found freedom. The population of the Colonies was about 2.5 million in 1776. The call of freedom was heard worldwide and people arrived from all over.
US Population growth since the first Fourth of July:
- 1776 = 2.5 Million
- 1826 = 11 Million
- 1876 = 45 Million
- 1926 = 117 Million
- 1976 = 218 Million
- Today = 320 Million
Immigrants contributed to the geometric growth rate of the US population. They came in waves, built families and businesses, and call called home to others.
The risk of the arduous journey was worth the reward America offered for those who earned it. Immigrants came and contributed and built the nation. And as one wave of immigrants built that foundation, another would be called, and another. The railroads, power system, libraries, industry, commerce, and farmlands all flourished with immigrant willpower and ingenuity, making the journey more appealing for more people. All sheltered by the freedom fought for back in 1776.
Over the years, the wealth of people, and backgrounds, and experiences that pushed America forward made us all stronger. The population grew 100 times larger, and the economy became the greatest in the world, thanks to the people who came here to share the American dream established in 1776.
If you love America, and the Fourth of July, and are an immigrant or descended from one, be proud of what we have all built.
Happy Independence Day.
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