The United States is often referred to as a nation of immigrants. Indeed, if you’re not a full-blooded member of a Native American tribe, you are an immigrant or a descendant of immigrants. But Americans have long been divided about what kind of immigration to allow and from where. 

In recent years, the debate has often centered on the soaring number of Central Americans seeking asylum in the U.S. (see "They'll Kill Me If I'm Sent Back"). This surge has raised key questions: Who deserves asylum? How can we make applying for it fair while preventing abuse of the system? Should asylum seekers be allowed to stay in the U.S. while their claims are being considered, which can take years?

These cartoons present different points of view on immigration. The top cartoon shows a scene from America’s founding days. (Note: A horde is a big crowd.) The bottom cartoon features Uncle Sam, a symbol of the U.S. It comments on the current situation at the U.S. border with Mexico. Study both cartoons, then answer the questions.

1. Who are the two groups in the top cartoon? What is happening there?

2. How does what is being said comment humorously on today’s immigration debate?

3. In the bottom cartoon, what has just happened to Uncle Sam? What do the footprints tell you? 

4. What information do the signs on the door provide? Why are they now irrelevant?

5. Sum up each cartoon’s message and how the cartoons compare.