From exports to imports

Traditionally, Spain was always a country of emigrants. My professor showed me pictures of men waiting in lines with raggedy suits and wooden suitcases to leave Spain in search of better economic opportunity. It was common for men to find jobs outside of the country and send money back to their families at home.

The influx of money from foreign-based family members contributed to an economic surge in Spain around the 1970s and 1980s. Over the past thirty years, Spain's economic growth has converted it from a country of emigrants to a country of immigrants.

Latin Americans in particular have swarmed to the country because they don't have to deal with language barriers upon arrival. Many latino-americans can be found working as in-home nannies or as waiters. Other prominent origins of immigrants are Northern Africa and Eastern Europe. Speaking on stereotypes, the Africans are known for illegally coming over in pateras, boats similar to those taken from Cuba to Florida, while many Eastern European women have found a niche in prostitution.

But economic opportunity is not the sole contributor to the influx of immigrants. Spain sells sand, sex, and Sangria, and the tourism industry plays a big role. The beaches of Spain have become a popular retirement destination for Europeans -- my professor compared the southwestern coast of Spain to Florida in the U.S. One issue of concern here is that retired folk are using a lot of resources from the free public health care available in hospitals.

In general, the topic of immigration brings rise to many of the same themes in Spain as it does in America. Some are under-educated, some over-educated. Racism can develop. Those "sin papeles" (without papers) aren't paying taxes.

What's different is that the existence of immigrants is completely new for Spain. As my professor put it, "I never would have discussed this topic with Vanderbilt students when I started teaching 30 years ago because it did not exist." Spain passed a new immigration law just last year -- but to be honest I don't fully understand what it entails.

My discussions about immigration drove home the point to me that the United States was founded as a country of immigrants, and the issue has always played a role in defining our country. It's interesting to compare and contrast to the way it affects Spain.