No, they weren't. Our economy has grown by trillions of dollars per year. It is not a zero sum situation. We have far more people doing far more jobs than back in the "good old days" that you're remembering.
Well since I am not an economist - does the economy growing by trillions? equate enough jobs to take care of the millions that have come here as well s the Americans who have grown? Now keep in mind that we have seen many, many American jobs go overseas in that same time period. I have tried to tell you, but someone who is knowledgable in the construction business gave you the facts - you just don't want to admit it.
Americans are being displaced that is just a given, sorry. But Americans are being bankrupted to care for these folks. Our state is broke, the city of Dallas is broke, hospitals are broke, schools are not broke yet because some taxpayers can still pay -but just give it time. I am expecting a state income tax any year now.
There is nothing right legally or morally about this and there is no benefit to America or working Americans here. There is no way it can be sugar coated - try as you may.