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The United States of America has a rich immigration history that contributes to today’s multicultural and diverse society. Throughout history, the United States has developed, changed, and modified its immigration laws and policies in response to changing political situations, international relationships, societal attitudes, and economic needs. Let’s discuss the history and evolution of immigration laws in the United States.
Early Immigration Laws
The history of U.S. immigration laws started in the 18th century with the Naturalization Act of 1790. This act was the first significant legislation that established the needed naturalization criteria. It was focused on the motto of “free white persons.” This tone characterized the immigration rules, regulations, and policies of U.S. immigration.
The Origins Quota System
One of the most significant aspects of U.S. immigration history is the start of the National Origins Quota System, which started in the 1920s. The Immigration Act of 1924, also known as the Johnson-Reed Act, restricted the immigration process. It was restricted based on national origin, and its focus was to preserve the existing balance of ethnicity in the United States. This system was biased in favor of immigrants from Western Europe. The legal design limited the immigration of immigrants from Eastern Europe, Southern Europe, Africa, and Asia.
Post-World War II Changes
The history and evolution of immigration laws in the United States were also shaped by Post-World War II politics. The outcomes of World War II initiated a reconsideration of U.S. immigration policies. At that time, the Refugee Relief Act of 1953 and The Displaced Persons Act of 1948 allowed displaced people and refugees to be admitted. These people were victims of war destruction. However, in a broad sense, the immigration system mostly remained unchanged until the mid-twentieth century.
Role of U.S. Immigration Agencies
For many years, government agencies were responsible for the immigration process and enforcing States passed immigration laws, regulations, and policies in the United States. The immigration system of the U.S. was in the hands of The Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) until 2003. After that, the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) was reorganized into three different entities. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) was the entity created to manage the immigration system of the U.S. It played a significant role in immigration laws in the U.S.
Recent Development In The 21st Century
The 21st century has seen a continued emphasis on immigration reform, which changed many regulations. It has included discussions and debates about border security and the role of immigration in the economy. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) 2003 brought several immigration enforcement agencies under one system, highlighting the importance of immigration in national security debates.
U.S. Immigration Law & Immigrant Responsibility Act
The Immigration Law in the U.S. has undergone various transformations throughout history. The Immigrant Responsibility Act is a piece of legislation that initiated significant changes affecting lawful permanent residents. This act focused on the immigrants taking on national responsibilities, emphasizing the evolving nature of immigration law.