In the acclaimed sonnet “The New Colossus” American poet Emma Lazarus writes, “Give us your poor, your tired, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free…” Engraved within the inside of an icon of freedom, the Statue of Liberty, this statement has come to define the country of the United States of America. Even before its declaration of independence in 1776, the United States was a haven for those seeking a better life. Flocking to this country by the thousands, immigrants past and present have journeyed to the land of the free in an attempt to obtain a lifestyle based upon the United States’ concept of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” With more and more people entering the country, the United States quickly evolved into the ultimate melting pot that welcomed any and all who desired to become a part of it.

As time has passed and millions of immigrants have ventured to the country, the United States still maintains a welcoming attitude towards new immigrants. However, with such a vast amount of foreigners who desire access into the country, entry into the United States has become much more complex since the days of Ellis Island. As a result, this new century has given rise to another kind of immigrant: the illegal immigrant. Desperate to become a part of the booming American culture, thousands upon thousands immigrants have begun to enter the United States illegally. Ignoring the laws set forth by the American government, these immigrants enter the country and unnoticeably assimilate themselves into the culture of the United States. With the influence of several factors such as large borders and unruly citizens who refuse to uphold the law, the government essentially allows these individuals to enter the country and actually cause some major damage. Ultimately, as the United States’ government is unable to fully enforce the