This paper uses US census immigrant data from 1910 and 2000 to show that some
national cultures in the twentieth century were more conducive than others to
entrepreneurship. It demonstrates that a number of entrepreneurial cultures persisted
over the century while others did not. Persistence at first sight suggests culture can
contribute to explaining long term economic performance. But cross-country
comparison indicates that a strong entrepreneurial culture is not sufficient for high GDP
per capita. Without the right institutions such a culture appears at best ineffective,
judging by the comparatively strong economic development of nations with low
entrepreneurship culture indices.