Border Security Developments
During President Joe Biden’s approach to border policies, I often found myself advocating for the necessity of a border wall. It wasn’t about shutting everyone out but aimed to hinder the straightforward entry of illegal individuals, goods, and drugs.
Now, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is implementing what are termed “smart walls.” These combine advanced technology with substantial physical barriers to help control illegal crossings. While the tech aspect is new, the concept of a wall has historical roots.
Take the Romans, for instance. At Hadrian’s Wall, built in what is now northern England, they established a boundary to signify their northern limits, complete with fortifications. Vindolanda, a well-preserved fort, offers a glimpse into their lives through artifacts that reveal how they lived and communicated.
The idea of a “stupid wall” can reference just building something tall and hoping for the best. However, the Romans had different strategies. Their barriers, while manageable to cross, visually marked territory and signaled to northern tribes that crossing meant trespassing. Primitive warnings, like heads on spikes, served as stark reminders of the consequences of intrusion—essentially early psychological operations.
Additionally, much like the modern U.S. Border Patrol, the Roman walls incorporated systems to relay intelligence and direct resources effectively. Around 500 troops were stationed at Vindolanda, patrolling regularly and communicating with messengers and smoke signals to respond swiftly to any threats.
Fast forward 2,000 years, and the U.S. Border Patrol has more personnel than the Romans did, although it still faces challenges with vast territories. Recent increases in staffing and resources are welcome changes after years of underfunding during Biden’s term.
Despite the enhancements brought in by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the Border Patrol still covers an expansive 1,800 miles of the southern border alone. High-tech tools like cameras, sensors, and drones can now assist in early detection of illegal crossings, akin to the Roman flares and messengers.
Under the Biden administration, many were released into the U.S. after encounters, often surrendering willingly. This influx was notable, but the climate has shifted under Trump’s leadership, with border encounters dropping significantly to about one-tenth of Biden’s peak levels.
Most notably, the current policy involves detaining individuals during immigration proceedings, which has evidently discouraged many from attempting unlawful entry.
DHS has also announced a substantial contract of $4.5 billion for various types of barriers along the Mexico border. This includes 80 miles of barriers along the Rio Grande in Texas, which may feature effective rotating buoys introduced under state operations in 2023.
Moreover, the “smart wall” concept encompasses not only a physical 30-foot wall but also improved infrastructure—better roads, lighting, and enhanced surveillance capabilities for Border Patrol. Areas like El Paso, Del Rio, San Diego, and Tucson are set to receive updated or new installations to bolster border security.
The lessons from the Roman Empire demonstrate that well-supported walls can establish stable frontiers, regulating access according to established rules. During Trump’s potential second term, similar principles are being applied in the U.S. to effectively limit illegal immigration, thus curbing associated crimes such as drug smuggling and human trafficking.
