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1790
The constitution passed a law defining who could become a citizen if a person was not born here. -
Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882
No chinese laborer could enter the US for 10 years. Professionals were still allowed to immigrate. -
Quota act of 1921
Immigration from any country is limited to 2 percent of its total number in the 1980 census. -
Immigration Act of 1924
Each countries immigrants were limited to 2 percent of foreign born residents from that country listed in the US Census of 1890. -
1965-Immigration Reform Act
Abolishing the quota system based on national origin -
1986 - Immigration Reform and Control Act
Eligable workers could be granted temporary and then permanent residency. After 5 years they could apply for citizenship. -
Immigration Act of 1990
No country could account for more than 7 percent of total immigrants. -
Immigration Reform Act of 1996
A new law expands the US Border Patrol and stiffens penalties for false papers. -
Bush's Bill
Bill proposed to fill short term laboy needs through a quest worker program and strengthened border control. Fine undocumented immigrants and require them to fulfill certain obligations before they could apply for citizenship. Later 2007 Senate voted the bill down.
