Final answer:
The thrust of U.S. immigration laws over time has included phases of restriction, liberalization, and focus on specific issues, with policies often responding to shifting political, social, and economic contexts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The overall thrust of immigration laws over time has varied depending on the specific historical period and societal context. However, some key trends can be identified:
- In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the United States experienced a significant wave of immigration, with laws focused on regulating the entry of immigrants and determining who was eligible for citizenship. The Immigration Act of 1924, for example, implemented strict quotas based on nationality and limited immigration from certain regions.
- In the mid-20th century, there was a shift towards more inclusive immigration policies. The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 abolished discriminatory quotas and established a preference system based on family ties, employment skills, and humanitarian considerations.
- Recent immigration laws have been characterized by debates over border security, national security, and economic impacts. The Secure Fence Act of 2006 authorized the construction of physical barriers on the US-Mexico border, while immigration policies aimed at addressing undocumented immigration have been subjects of ongoing political discussions.