The People of the Valley: A Spatial History of Silicon Valley

Abstract

<p>This thesis is about the history of immigration in Silicon Valley from the arrival of the first people, the Ohlones. Using Spatial Methodology, I show how the valley was merely an historical space until the arrival of the Europeans who changed the landscape by introducing people, animals, plants, and the supplies necessary for their survival. It is the history of a space that was built layer upon layer as more immigrants arrived and introduced new ideas and expertise.</p> <p> The history of the valley is a history of one set of immigrants succeeding another, usually peacefully, but not always. The Spanish came from Mexico; they trained the Ohlones to farm, and the valley began to flourish. When the Spanish authorities left, the Mexicans took their place, but this group did not put down any new layers. They gave away the mission lands to the elite Californios. They could not cope with the inroads of aggressive Americans who demanded land. Finally, Mexico declared war on the United States Government, and were defeated. The area was now in American hands.</p><p> The valley prospered. As new immigrants arrived they introduced new skills: new layers were being placed on those laid down before them. Further immigration brought both commercial and agricultural expertise.</p> <p> Then immigrants came from the East. Poor and uneducated, the Chinese were employed in dangerous occupations that no one else wanted. They suffered at the hands of organized groups who did not want them there. Japanese immigrants came to work on farms, and were capable of defending themselves. People migrated from Europe because they wanted a freer life. They brought skills that contributed to the ongoing prosperity of the valley.</p> <p> But after the Second World War, farms were sold; a new layer of development arrived. Information Technology was to become the most important industry. Scientists and engineers came from throughout the world to study, work and start their own companies. The valley became a centre for exporting technology with many successful former immigrants taking their new skills and ideas to their homelands. This thesis shows that, from the arrival of the first Spanish immigrants to those who are currently coming from all corners of the world, the valley has prospered through their efforts. Silicon Valley is the culmination of the talents and determination of many people. If success is to be maintained, immigration must continue as it has for more than two centuries.</p>