Do you think morals have changed over the past century? Even back then, Slater knew what he was doing was criminal (in Britain), and immoral (to the British). IP laws weren't invented after Sam Slater; American industrialists knew Britain's laws, but they still welcomed Slater because they wanted to move up the value chain. American morals haven't evolved since Slater - the only thing that changed is that they are no longer the upstart but the incumbent. The same will happen to China in 50-100 years: they too will become very concerned about losing IP to whatever ambitious upstart country.

Also, if you want something more recent, France/Airbus accused the US intelligence apparatus of economic spying to benefit Boeing in the 90's - so decades ago. "National Interests" remain the same after decades or centuries. I don't doubt France does the same for its companies.