[traditionalist]

In the years before our welfare state really got cranked up, Americans had no real objection to immigrants. Anyone who came here had to support himself, just as did anyone who was born here. He had to learn English to get along here. He had to obey the laws, respect civil order and observe public peace. He was cut no slack -- and maybe was held to a stricter standard than native born Americans -- simply because he came from another land.

This is factually incorrect. The welfare state didn't take off until the New Deal. The 1924 immigration act was passed long before.

[gjenkins]

"This is factually incorrect. The welfare state didn't take off until the New Deal. The 1924 immigration act was passed long before."

I think his definition of welfare would be a bit broader than yours. Public education and economic protection would also be welfare programs.