How can I start a credit history in the United States if I have never had a credit card?
A secured credit card is one path the CFPB describes for a first credit history in the United States. You put in cash. The page uses $500 as an example, not a required amount. You can spend up to the cash you put in. When you pay the bill, that spending room comes back. Those payments are reported to the three nationwide credit reporting companies. A debit card, cash, and a prepaid card do not build this history, because you are not borrowing money they report. The same page also names credit-builder loans and store cards. This page does not say you will be approved.
Money
Plain answers to everyday money questions, with official links. Not advice.
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