This paper examines the historical trajectory of talent attraction in the United States, analyzing the evolution of policies, socioeconomic drivers, and long-term impacts on national development. By synthesizing historical events, policy documents, and empirical data, it identifies three core pillars of U.S. success: adaptive immigration policies, world-class educational institutions, and a robust innovation ecosystem. The study also highlights persistent challenges, including nativist tensions and structural inequities, offering lessons for nations competing in the global talent race.
Guo et al. (Fri,) studied this question.