I think it's a cultural thing. Americans (and American immigrants) are risk takers. So even if you are Danish, French or Egyptian by virtue of immigrating to

I think it's a cultural thing. Americans (and American immigrants) are risk takers. So even if you are Danish, French or Egyptian by virtue of immigrating to a new home, you have exhibited a high level of risk taking behavior. It is only natural that this behavior turns into more entrepreneurial and innovative ideas. But I have to agree with other commenters that regulations and laws play a huge part. Americans are definitely better at that. So, you might have all sort of labor protection, multi-week vacations, free healthcare and benefits in Europe, these laws are usually a burden on small businesses (where most innovation takes place).