The United States began its life in a wild and untamed land; Thanks to the strong work ethic and perseverance of immigrants, it became the country we see today. But in this considerable time span between immigrants of the 21st century and those of the past, what has changed about the effects that people perceive immigrants to have. In the 1800s, Native Americans viewed immigrants to their lands as useless pests and not people who could one day help the country grow and prosper. Just like today, many Americans view illegal immigrants, people who enter a country illegally without proper documentation, as a burden on the country, not realizing that every negative aspect they offer also has a positive side . Additionally, many do not realize that no Americans other than Native Americans have ancestors who were not once illegal and unwanted immigrants to this earth. Illegal immigrants not only burden but help the United States by taking jobs that Americans consider privileged; they help increase the gross domestic product of the United States, and immigrants are willing to work for very little; on the other hand, illegal immigrants cost the United States money in welfare, health care, and education for their children. Citizens of the United States have become accustomed to certain luxuries and a privileged life, unlike people in other countries. Many Americans feel above certain jobs, such as picking fruit in fields, washing dishes in restaurants, and other unskilled, low-paying jobs. “Of the approximately one million agricultural workers in the United States, most are immigrants, and it is estimated that between a quarter and half of them are illegal” (Baragona, “American Farmers Depend on Illegal Immigrants”) . Some argue that Americans want jobs like farming, papermaking, consumer jobs. January 9, 2009. The web. November 28, 2011. .Martin, Jack and Eric A. Ruark. The tax burden of illegal immigration on American taxpayers. July 2010. The web. November 20, 2011. “Migrant Farm Workers in the United States.” Boces Geneseo Migrant Center: 1-4. Internet. November 26, 2011. .Porter, Eduardo. "The New York Times Business Illegal Immigrants Boost Social Security with Billions." The New York Times - Breaking news, world news and multimedia. April 5, 2005. Web. November 28, 2011. “What is GDP and why is it so important?” » Investopedia.com - Your source for investing education. Internet. November 28. 2011. .