Michael Barone - America's Multicultural Miracle

America’s “multicultural miracle” is discussed through the lens of the World Cup’s arrival, with European soccer fans receiving a “welcoming reception” as they travel to games across the country during the 250th anniversary period of the Declaration of Independence. Commentators cited in the piece include comedian Bill Maher, who said fans are doing Americans a “great service,” and Peggy Noonan of The Wall Street Journal, who argued visitors expected a darker nation but found a sunlit country with outstanding food and people. British-born American Andrew Sullivan added that the tournament is a reminder of a loving, generous culture that remains at America’s core. The article contrasts this reception with earlier narratives before the Trump era suggesting the U.S. had newly become multicultural. It traces that idea back to prior migration peaks such as 1892–1914 and other periods when Irish and German Catholic arrivals prompted similar concerns. It also links today’s diversity to earlier eras, including colonial times and the Revolution, while noting the varied religious contexts of revolutionaries.