Such things are no more essential today than they were 500 years ago yet the race has endured, perhaps because of those same hardships that you so fear. I'm not the one on this thread casting about simplistic rhetoric. As yourself, too many Americans have given up to the collectivist mindset, and turned the responsibility for their own lives over to bureaucrats.
It is precisely such weakness that draws millions of illegals into this country. Free education, free health care and housing subsidies act as a magnet to the rest of the world. As more people realize these gifts are here for the taking, how long until employable Americans tire of toiling to support those who do not work and stop working themselves? Who will provide your societal gifts then?
We cannot continue to expand the welfare state and expect to have a vibrant economy.
"It is precisely such weakness that draws millions of illegals into this country."
No, it is non-enforcement of the immigration laws and the utter lack of effective security at the Mexican border that have allowed millions of illegals into the country.