In this episode of Signed Into Law, we explore the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, also known as the Hart-Celler Act—the landmark legislation that fundamentally transformed American immigration. This groundbreaking law abolished the discriminatory national origins quota system that had favored Northern and Western European immigrants for decades, replacing it with a preference-based system emphasizing family reunification and skilled workers.
Discover how this single piece of legislation reshaped the demographic fabric of the United States, opening doors to immigrants from Asia, Latin America, Africa, and beyond. We examine the political forces behind the act, its unexpected consequences, and its lasting impact on American society today. Whether you're a history enthusiast, policy wonk, or simply curious about the laws that shaped modern America, this episode offers essential insights into one of the most consequential pieces of legislation in U.S. history.
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This episode includes AI-generated content.