Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965

Definition

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, also known as the Hart-Celler Act, was a landmark piece of legislation that significantly changed U.S. immigration policy by abolishing the national origins quota system. This act shifted the focus from country of origin to family reunification and skilled labor, allowing for increased immigration from non-European countries and reshaping the demographic landscape of the United States.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson as part of the civil rights movement, emphasizing equality in immigration policy.
2. The act eliminated discriminatory quotas based on nationality, leading to a significant increase in immigration from Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
3. Following the passage of this act, the proportion of immigrants coming from Europe decreased dramatically while those from other regions rose substantially.
4. The act led to substantial demographic changes in the United States, contributing to the multicultural fabric of American society we see today.
5. The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 laid the groundwork for future immigration policies, including those related to temporary work visas and refugee admissions.

Review Questions

• How did the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 change the landscape of U.S. immigration policy?
  • The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 marked a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy by abolishing the national origins quota system that had favored European immigrants. Instead, it focused on family reunification and skills, allowing more immigrants from diverse regions such as Asia and Africa. This change not only diversified the immigrant population but also reflected broader societal values around equality and civil rights.
• What role did the civil rights movement play in the passing of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965?
  • The civil rights movement played a crucial role in influencing the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965. Activists highlighted the injustices and discrimination inherent in the national origins quota system, advocating for more equitable policies. The act's passage can be seen as a response to these calls for justice and equality, aligning immigration reform with broader goals of civil rights during that era.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 on American society and its immigration framework.
  • The long-term impacts of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 are profound, as it fundamentally reshaped both American society and its approach to immigration. By allowing increased immigration from non-European countries, it led to significant demographic shifts that contributed to America's multicultural identity. Additionally, this act set a precedent for future immigration policies focused on family connections and skills rather than national origin, influencing contemporary discussions around immigration reform and integration.

Related terms

National Origins Quota System: A discriminatory immigration system established in the 1920s that limited immigration based on national origin, favoring Northern and Western European countries.

Family Reunification: A principle that prioritizes immigrants who have family members already residing in the U.S., allowing them to join their relatives.

Diversity Visa Program: A program created by the Immigration Act of 1990 that provides visas to individuals from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States.