The United States, often described as a nation of immigrants, has the most diverse population in the world. Immigration remains one of the most complex and contentious political, cultural, and social issues in the country. Much of today’s policy stems from the Immigration and Naturalization Act of 1965, championed by President John F. Kennedy to establish a new preference system for legal immigration.
This comprehensive volume explains the six major eras of immigration legislation, examines how and why laws evolved, and profiles the key actors and organizations shaping immigration policy today. It outlines the precursor laws to the 1965 Act, how they fell short, and the motivations and political context behind the Act’s passage. The book also considers where U.S. immigration law may be headed in the near future.
In addition, it explores the intended and unforeseen impacts of the 1965 Act on the American economy, demographics, and society at large. A curated selection of primary documents, government data, and scholarly sources supports this authoritative overview of immigration policy in the United States.
By:
Michael C. LeMay (California State University-San Bernardino USA) Imprint: Bloomsbury Academic USA Country of Publication: United States Dimensions:
Height: 235mm,
Width: 156mm,
ISBN:9798216392521 Series:Guides to Historic Events in America Pages: 344 Publication Date:27 November 2025 Audience:
College/higher education
,
Primary & secondary/elementary & high school
,
Primary
,
Children's (6-12)
Format:Paperback Publisher's Status: Active
List of Tables Series Foreword Preface Chronology Historical Overview Chapter 1. Precursor Laws of American Immigration Policy Chapter 2. Enacting the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 Chapter 3. The Significance of the 1965 Act Analytical Essays Biographical Essays Primary Documents Glossary Annotated Bibliography Index
Michael C. LeMay is professor emeritus of political science at California State University, San Bernardino, USA.
