History of Hispanic Immigration to America

1917-05-01 00:00:00

The "Selective Service Act"

By this time, the Immigration Act of 1917 was already enacted. On April 6th, WWI begins. Job openings increase due to American men being sent off to war, allowing Mexican workers to temporarily be able to enter the United States' workforce. Even though they are ineligible, Mexican immigrants in America become obliged to register for the war draft due to the passing of the Selective Service Act.

1925-01-01 00:00:00

"Border Patrol"

Congress creates and expands this patrol in response to an increase of illegal immigrants entering through the border.

1932-01-01 00:00:00

Deportation

The 1930s mark the period of time where the American government begins to deport, or force out, Mexicans.

1940-01-01 00:00:00

The "Fair Employment Practices Act"

WWII enables many Latinos to enlist in the United States' military. Latinos become the largest ethnic group to serve in this war. Meanwhile, the Fair Employment Act, which eliminates discrimination in employment, is put in place.

1943-01-01 00:00:00

The "Bracero Program"

WWII causes labor shortages to arise, calling for the establishment of the Bracero Program. This program is an agreement made between the United States and Mexican government to send braceros or temporary Mexican works to fill America's gap in agricultural work.

1944-01-01 00:00:00

"Operation Bootstrap"

This program started by Puerto Rico is made to encourage industrialization and meet the labor demands of the United States. This powers a large wave of migrant laborers to work in America.

1954-01-01 00:00:00

"Operation Wetback"

Established by the United States government, this operation allows the government to find and deport undocumented workers.

1960-01-01 00:00:00

Cuban Exiles

The 1960s marks the period where waves of Cuban refugees settle in the United States due to a new government under the reign of Fidel Castro.

1962-01-01 00:00:00

The "Cuban Embargo"

No one is allowed to travel to or from Cuba.

1980-01-01 00:00:00

The "Mariel Boatlift"

Fidel Castro announces in the Spring of 1980 that Cubans who wish to leave may do so at this time, causing a fleet of warships to the port of Mariel from South Florida which then bring over thousands of Cubans to the United States. Anti-immigrant sentiment rises around this time so these Cubans are accused of being criminals or mentally-ill.

1986-01-01 00:00:00

The "Immigration Reform and Control Act"

The IRCA signed by President Ronald Reagan gives amnesty to immigrants who entered illegally during the 1970s and 1980s, but also primarily strengthens border security and the United States immigration law.