American Salvation

  "Gregg Coodley's painstakingly researched historical book American Salvation: How Immigrants Made America Great focuses on the contributions that immigrants made to the US and emphasizes their importance in preserving the nation's prosperity as well as in advancing its economy, military, science, and culture…This book deftly and uniquely addresses a subject that has been the center of intense political and social discourse. It provides unadulterated facts and realities that might quell anti-immigrant attitude and encourage fresh thinking on the subject. The author has presented a novel reality on the rising population, giving the words of Kane significant weight and relevancy: “Being a nation of immigrants is a fundamental cause of the extraordinary prosperity and military power for the United States.” He has also provided the perfect answer for those who are concerned that immigrants are displacing Americans in the workforce. His findings make it difficult to ignore the debate on immigration's positive impacts, particularly on the US economy.

This book is filled with invaluable, thought-provoking, and paradigm-challenging material that challenges conventional wisdom. Written without influencing any specific political structure, it is rife with transformative potential that might ensure America's continued greatness. Among the best historical writings now in print, it is notable for its meticulous attention to the background from which America emerged. It is a read that makes use of well-chosen words, simple language, perceptive conclusions, and a basis of thoughtful analysis.

Quill says: Regardless of your position on immigration, Coodley provides convincing arguments to help clarify a divisive topic in American politics and culture. American Salvation: How Immigrants Made America Great transforms fear into hope and emphasizes the crucial part that everyone of us plays in determining our common destiny."

- Ephantus Muriuki, Feathered Quill

  “Coodley’s book looks at how important immigrants have been for America and its history. It’s no secret that immigration policy is a hot-button issue in America, especially in the current political atmosphere. The author opens with the American Revolution, where he shares stories about those who helped the nation gain independence. This isn’t about the usual suspects either. Haym Salomon is one name that many probably don’t remember reading about in history books. Salomon immigrated to America from Poland, and he gave at least $650,000 to the revolutionary cause. The book later examines some of the darker topics in history, including the Immigration Act of 1924, a federal law that prevented immigration from Asia and set quotas from Eastern and Southern Europe.

Coodley doesn’t shy away from how Americans have treated immigrants, especially those from Asian countries. On a lighter side, the book looks at immigrants who were part of the movie industry, like director Frank Capra, lesser-known actress Florence Lawerence, and Adolph Zukor—one of the three founders of Paramount Pictures and a popular movie producer. The book ends with what immigration looks like in the modern world, noting how the recent improvement in the economy owes much to the recent increase of immigrants to the U.S. and how most of the big businesses now are run by immigrants. Coodley does bring up the political atmosphere and how certain proposed policies by politicians could harm the country. Overall, Coodley’s book is thought-provoking and well-written. It should be required reading for every citizen who votes, especially people who are interested in history and politics.

RECOMMENDED by the US Review”

- US Review of Books.

  "American Salvation is both a history of the grand currents and riptides of changing US immigrant policy and a more intimate narrative of individual immigrants who have enriched and renewed this country. The book surveys the powerful role immigrants have played in US industry, entertainment, science, politics and technology, fortifying the case that…the vitality and resourcefulness of immigrants is clearly what made America great.” 

- William McRae, author, Moon Oregon

 “This in depth work examines the pivotal role of immigrants in shaping the United States…Gregg Coodley put a lot of research and enthusiasm into crafting an enlightening journey through the tapestry of immigrant experiences in America…The narrative style is clean, confident and as concise as you’d want a good historical account to be, but there’s a warmth and positivity that runs subtly below the surface for an inclusive and enthusiastic overall feel… American Salvation is a recommended read for anyone interested in American social history and its relevance to the here and now”

- K.C. Finn, Readers Favorite  

“Synopsis: American Salvation is a historical novel, stands out with its unique approach of intricately weaving together the stories of various immigrants in the United States' early years. Through a rich tapestry of ideals, conflicts, and vibrant personalities, this narrative shed light on the political rivalries of the time. It offers profound insights into the shaping of our nation.

Join these immigrants on their intertwined journeys towards freedom, and feel the weight of their political challenges, revolutionary fervor, and the vision for a new nation.

Critique: American Salvation promises an enlightening and thought-provoking exploration of a pivotal era in American history. Experience the profound impact of immigrants on society and be humbled by the power of each individual's story in shaping our collective history. Gregg Coodley's vivid prose and meticulous historical research this book promises an enlightening and thought-provoking exploration of a pivotal era in American history. The research in this one book is outstanding! Being a history buff, I was enchanted by all this book revealed.”

- Suzie Housley, Midwest Book Review

  “A remarkable story of immigrant contributions to America, some familiar and some new.”

- Don H. Doyle, author, The Cause of All Nations”

“Immigrants, argues Gregg Coodley, are America’s true superpower. In this sweeping study, he traces their contributions in government, business, literature, war and lately in high technology, by individuals both legendary and now forgotten.”

- David Sarasohn, author, The Party of Reform: Democrats in the Progressive Era.”

  "American Salvation, by Gregg Coodley, offers a fascinating exploration of the critical role immigrants have played in shaping the United States. The book delves into their contributions across a wide range of fields, from the American Revolution and the Civil War to the country’s financial system, economy, and human rights movements. Coodley also highlights the impact immigrants have had on entertainment, science, technology, and literature. He traces the origins of these immigrants, including those from Germany, Ireland, Scandinavia, Latin America, Mexico, and beyond, while emphasizing their influence on the development of the nation. The author also does not shy away from the hardships they faced, such as the appalling conditions Irish immigrants endured, leading to widespread illness and death, or the anti-Chinese riots in California in 1858. Coodley further explores the various attempts to limit immigration and offers evidence of how immigrants have been key drivers in America's growth.

This book is a well-researched piece of expository non-fiction, with Coodley laying out clear evidence to support his central argument: immigration has been overwhelmingly positive for the United States. The text is full of examples that showcase the numerous ways immigrants have enriched the country. One of the most compelling aspects is the way Coodley tackles the racist fears of those who opposed immigration, arguing that rather than weakening the country, immigrants helped it thrive. For instance, Alexander Stewart, an immigrant, established a booming dry goods store in New York, employing thousands at its peak. This is just one of many examples the author uses to demonstrate that immigrants did far more than take low-paying jobs—they built businesses, created jobs, and became pillars of the community.

The specificity and attention to detail in American Salvation are commendable. Coodley meticulously includes dates, time periods, and thorough source citations, enhancing the text’s credibility and reinforcing the depth of his research. He also provides a well-rounded perspective by covering the experiences of multiple immigrants, rather than focusing solely on their successes. This breadth and depth offer a comprehensive look at the immigrant experience in America. However, I did feel that the book's paragraphs were a bit too brief. While the content was engaging, I found myself wishing for more detailed explorations of certain topics.

American Salvation, by Gregg Coodley, is a valuable read for anyone interested in the history of immigration in America and its undeniable impact on the country's success. Coodley’s thorough research and balanced approach make it a compelling and informative text, though readers may find themselves wanting deeper dives into certain sections. If you’re looking to understand how immigrants have shaped America, this book is well worth your time.

Rating: 4 Stars"

- April Pulliam, Assistant Editor, Literary Titan