Discussion Questions for 10/10

The Founding Immigrants


When studying immigration, we are forced to look at what types of immigrants were desired in the United States and what types were looked down on.
Discussion: What was John Jay’s “ring of brass”? And how does this relate to the recent immigration policy?


Rethinking the Last 200 Years of Immigration Policy

The early form of US immigration policy was that of Laissez Faire, or open door, allowing many immigrants into the US.
Discussion: What were some of the ways in which US policy changed leading to the gradual “closing” of the immigration door?

The immigration act of 1924, known as the National Origins Act, instituted the concept of quotas that severely regulated immigration.
Discussion: How did the creation of quotas reflect the types of immigrants that were favored? What types of immigrants were excluded? Subsequently, who was allowed in by passing this act?

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 abolished the system of quotas, but put a limit on immigration from the Western Hemisphere.
Discussion: Even though this act put a restriction on immigration from the Western Hemisphere, how did it also enable continued immigration from Latino countries?


Immigration; Economic Report of the President


Discussion: What are the arguments for letting more highly skilled immigrants in to the US? What are the arguments against this?


Discussion: What is the Presidents immigration plan? Do you agree with this? Why?