IT’S THE LAW

When the United States was lightly populated, it welcomed immigrants from around the world. By the early 1900s, however, the land was more settled. Americans grew concerned about densely populated cities and competition for jobs. Congress passed laws to establish stricter immigration policies. Some of the laws discriminated against certain immigrants, particularly Asians. Here’s a look at the major U.S. immigration acts since the late 1800s.

1882

Strong anti-Chinese sentiment by American workers leads to the Chinese Exclusion Act. The act restricts any new Chinese laborers from entering the United States for 10 years. It is the first time the United States passes a federal law to limit immigration.

1892

The Geary Act renews the Chinese Exclusion Act for another 10 years. It also