Historical Events tagged with "immigration"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Emergency Quota Act establishes immigration quotas

May 19th, 1921 103 years ago

The Emergency Quota Act was passed by Congress in 1921, establishing national quotas for immigration to the United States. This act was motivated by a desire to restrict immigration from certain countries, reflecting growing nativist sentiments. It aimed to limit the number of immigrants based on their nationality, particularly targeting Southern and Eastern Europeans. By utilizing a quota system, the Act specifically capped the number of individuals allowed from each nationality to 3% of their respective populations in the U.S. according to the 1910 census. This legislation had lasting implications on U.S. immigration policy.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Sacco and Vanzetti Arrested for Robbery and Murder

May 5th, 1920 104 years ago

Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti were arrested in Massachusetts for their alleged involvement in a robbery and murder that occurred in South Braintree. The crime involved the theft of $15,776 from a shoe factory payroll, during which two guards were killed. The case would later become a significant flashpoint for discussions on immigration, politics, and justice in America.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Immigration Act of 1917 Passed Against Veto

February 5th, 1917 108 years ago

The Congress of the United States passed the Immigration Act of 1917, overriding President Woodrow Wilson's veto. This legislation introduced strict immigration quotas, aimed particularly at certain groups, and significantly impacted immigration policies. Advocates argued that these measures were necessary for national security and social welfare. The act also established the so-called 'barred zone,' which excluded immigrants from specific Asian countries and other regions deemed undesirable.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Foundation of Modern Tel Aviv

April 11th, 1909 115 years ago

In 1909, a group of Jewish families gathered at the outskirts of Jaffa to establish a new neighborhood, which would later become Tel Aviv. The event marked a significant step in the Jewish settlement movement in Palestine, as the settlers aimed to create a modern urban center. The founders decided upon the name Tel Aviv, meaning 'Hill of Spring', reflecting the aspirations of rejuvenation and growth. Over the years, this settlement evolved into a bustling city that would become the economic and cultural hub of Israel.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

First Japanese immigrants arrive in Brazil

June 18th, 1908 116 years ago

In 1908, 781 Japanese immigrants disembarked from the ship Kasato-Maru in Santos, Brazil. This marked a significant point in Japanese migration history, spurred by economic hardships in Japan and opportunities in Brazil's coffee plantations. The arrival represented the beginning of a major wave of Japanese immigration to South America, transforming the cultural landscape of Brazil and establishing a lasting Japanese community in the country.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Record Day at Ellis Island Immigration Center

April 17th, 1907 117 years ago

The Ellis Island Immigration Center processed 11,747 individuals in one day, setting a record for the highest number of entrants. Located in New York Harbor, Ellis Island served as the main entry point for millions of immigrants arriving in the United States. This surge in processing showcased the increasing influx of people seeking new opportunities in America. Many came from European countries, fleeing economic hardship and political unrest, eager to start anew.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

SS Norge Sinks After Running Aground

June 28th, 1904 120 years ago

The SS Norge, a Danish passenger liner, struck Hasselwood Rock in the North Atlantic, approximately 430 kilometres northwest of Ireland, leading to the loss of over 635 lives. The tragedy occurred during a voyage from Copenhagen to New York City, when poor visibility and navigational errors resulted in the vessel running aground on June 28, 1904. Most of the passengers were immigrants seeking a new life in America, and many of those aboard were unable to escape as the ship capsized.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Kishinev Pogrom Triggers Jewish Exodus

April 19th, 1903 121 years ago

In Kishinev, Bessarabia, violent attacks against the Jewish community erupted, resulting in the deaths of dozens and the destruction of homes and businesses. This pogrom instigated widespread fear among the Jewish population, leading many to seek refuge in Palestine and other parts of the Western world. The violence was fueled by longstanding anti-Semitic sentiments and false accusations, igniting a humanitarian crisis that extended beyond the region.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Canada Limits Immigration for Paupers and Criminals

July 23rd, 1900 124 years ago

Amid growing concerns over immigration, Canada enacted stricter policies to prevent paupers and criminals from entering the country. This decision was largely influenced by the influx of individuals perceived as burdens on public resources. The Canadian government aimed to balance immigration benefits while maintaining social order, reflecting contemporary societal anxieties regarding economic stability and social welfare.

Continue Reading