Positive and Negative Aspects of Immigration in the United States Essay

Positive and Negative Aspects of Immigration in the United States - Essay Example However, the earlier immigration at the beginning of the twentieth century had a comparatively greater impact because the United States was less populated at that time (Saiz 14). â€Å"If current immigration rates are sustained, two-thirds of the population growth in the United States could be accounted for by immigration by 2050† (Saiz 14). The arrival of new immigrants is creating severe opposition as well as spirited defense for immigration. Every year, the debate on the benefits and adverse effects caused by immigration grows increasingly heated, and its political discourse is likely to be a major issue in the future (Isbister 1). Philip Martin and Elizabeth Midgley argue that a significant issue is an illegal immigration which began rising in the 1970s. This was the first main immigration issue debated in Congress in the 21st century (Martin and Midgley 3).   The arrival in the United States of large numbers of foreigners from various countries can either be a cause for concern or a trend to be welcomed. â€Å"There is no single answer, which helps to explain why Americans are ambivalent about immigration† (Martin and Midgley 3). The United States has always celebrated its immigrant heritage with mass naturalization ceremonies on July 4; these ceremonies associate immigration with the founding of the United States. American leaders have reiterated the renewal and rebirth caused by the advent of newcomers in America considered as the ‘land of opportunity’. This implies that immigration enables individuals to improve their lives and also strengthen the United States at the same time (Martin and Midgley 11).