[SoldierDad]

From my college days I was "taught" that the newer immigrants were less inclined to want to assimilate into the dominant American culture. This was in reference to only those who were here legally. Those coming her illegally have very little interest in assimilating. Of course, these "teachings" are purely generalizaions and do not apply to all people immigrating here.

You are correct that there is no way to know how many coming here are just like you were - that information wouldn't be shared with the average American as it doesn't fit the agenda of those in control. You are also correct that way too many people who have enjoyed the liberties and freedoms of this country for decades have no understanding of what it is like to live where freedom is only a dream. I share in your frustration.

[elpinta]

I can only speak of those of us that came in the 70s.

ALL I knew came here to make money and either go back, or be American. No milking the system, no breaking laws, no nothing that was not on the up ‘n up.

Welfare was evil. We all paid cash for medical if we needed it. We had insurance and registered vehicles or used public transit. We were raised to be honest.

MOST of us were determined to be assimilated, many were not fond of keeping their ‘non-American’ identity. Many changed their names upon Naturalization so that there would be no immediate recognition of their origins... many did so because they were ashamed of the way their native country was ruled.