Afro Caribbean Human Capital in the United States: Immigrant Success in Early Twentieth Century Philadelphia

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.

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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.