The Immigration Act of 1917, which required a literacy test for anyone seeking to immigrate to the United States, was passed into law on February 5, 1917, after Congress overrode President Woodrow Wilson’s veto with a two-thirds majority.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the United States received the majority of the world’s immigrants. However, as sentiment grew in favor of restricting immigration and admitting only those deemed capable of contributing to the nation’s growth and prosperity, the Immigration Restriction League was formed in 1894. The organization advocated for laws requiring immigrants to meet a literacy standard before being admitted to the United States.
Several immigration bills incorporating literacy requirements were introduced in Congress before the 1917 Act, but they were either vetoed by sitting presidents or failed to pass. However, in 1915, another bill was introduced that mandated a literacy test, requiring prospective immigrants to read 30 to 40 words before entering the country.
The bill also barred individuals from entry who were classified as “alcoholics,” “criminals,” “convicts,” “idiots,” those with “mental or physical defects,” individuals with “constitutional psychopathic inferiority,” and “political radicals,” among others.
Wilson vetoed the bill on December 14, 1916, but Congress overrode his veto on February 5, 1917, enacting the Immigration Act of 1917 into law.
Following its implementation, immigration to the United States declined significantly. The Act was later modified by the Immigration Act of 1924, which introduced broader immigration quotas based on national origin.
Photo is a cartoon published in 1916 after the bill was written. Cartoon artists were Raymond Evans and John Held, Jr.
I will have less of a presence on The Torrid Tribe Community. We have very little activity here. This is a sign to me that members have found other social media resources that they are spending more time in. I am happy to see less censorship on social media in general. I started The Torrid Tribe 4 years ago when we were in a state of censorship and lockdowns. It was a difficult time and this was a haven and sanctuary for so many.
I will be lightly posting things here to give you all content to see. This community will always be open to everyone and will resurrect to its full capacity if subscribers show they want it fully operational again with full time administration.
Thank you for being a part of this community. Sending each of you hugs.
K-
Creator of The Torrid Tribe
Passion is the vibe that I want to bring to this community. I want to enjoy your passion for whatever it is you are into. Let's share what we learn - and learn what each other shares. Foodies unite. I love to cook and share recipes. I will regularly post pictures and recipes are available upon request. I would enjoy discussing your past, present and future journeys. Nature is God and Mother Earth's exquisite gift to us. Share a picture and we will enjoy the beauty through your eyes. Let's get deep and consensual with great subjective matter. This is a non judgemental safe place to let everything hang out.
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Torri
