They made it work, even during very hard times, my mom said her brothers never got in trouble, always worked hard(whatever work there was)...though they occasionally received help from the local church they worked in fields, did maintenance work...whatever they could to give back.
None of them were educated much past the 8th grade, they didn't bitch/demand gov. handouts/protest...they were working class people who were grateful to a nation that took them in, and they were proud to serve her when called upon to do so.
A different generation, based in faith/principled/dedicated.
...in so many ways, I don't think they would recognize America today.
I know what you mean, I’m glad my parents were spared having Obama for a president and seeing what has happened in this country.