What can we learn from the socioeconomic rise and exemplary lives of Afro-Caribbean immigrants to Philadelphia in the early twentieth century, a period marked by considerable racial prejudice and systemic barriers that held back other groups? The historical success of Afro-Caribbean immigrants—characterized by their education, ambition, work ethic, intact families, faith, and community solidarity—offers actionable lessons for public policy.
Key Takeaways
- The story of Afro-Caribbean immigrants to Philadelphia in the early twentieth century shows that the American Dream has not been out of reach for disadvantaged groups who have demonstrated self-reliance, strong family bonds, and resilient communities.
- The historical success of these Afro-Caribbean immigrants—characterized by their education, ambition, work ethic, intact families, faith, and community solidarity—offers actionable lessons for public policy.
- The US government can and should prioritize creating sustainable pathways to self-sufficiency. These pathways include improving educational opportunities, updating the current immigration system, sponsoring vocational training and skill development programs, supporting small family businesses, and incentivizing marriage and intact families.
Afro-Caribbean Human Capital in the United States: Immigrant Success in Early Twentieth-Century Philadelphia by Hoover Institution
Cite this essay:
Johann Smith. “Afro-Caribbean Human Capital in America: Immigrant Success in Early Twentieth-Century Philadelphia.” Hoover Institution, Hoover History Lab Policy Brief no. 2405. Hoover Institution Press, January 2025.
