[FrankWilhoit]

Two hundred years ago, it was understood that national borders were things that neither persons, nor goods, nor money, nor information should routinely cross. That understanding was correct and necessary, and must perforce be regained, after who knows what further unnecessary harm has been done.

[kergonath]

You would need to provide far more than that. What are you alluding to? 200 years ago was the development of the nation-state as a concept. Borders were completely porous; the technology to close them effectively was more about 100 years in the future.

Also, 200 years ago was the development of colonial empires, which is pretty much the opposite of what you say.

[doug_durham]

What an odd and unique view on history. The founding fathers routinely enjoyed imported bananas, and the economy depended on cotton exports.

[warkdarrior]

Do you have examples of countries from 200 years ago that had closed borders? In the vast majority of cases, borders were open, for a fee.

[Arn_Thor]

Citations, lots of them, needed

[szundi]

Prepare to consume 1/3 rd of your present rate then

[limpbizkitfan]

To stupid people, a border is some sacred impenetrable wall. To most of us, it’s just another line.