Explore the historical roots and enduring impact of anti-immigrant sentiment and racism in this insightful article. For more information, visit: https://www.aroundrobin.com/racism-in-1920/

1. Anti-Immigrant Sentiment and Racism: A Historical
Perspective
Anti-immigrant sentiment and racism have long been intertwined issues in the United States and
many other parts of the world. While immigration has played a pivotal role in shaping nations
and cultures, it has also often been met with resistance, fear, and prejudice. In this article, we
will explore the historical roots of anti-immigrant sentiment and racism, with a special focus on
the 1920s, a decade marked by significant changes in immigration policies and a resurgence of
racial tensions.
Racism in the 1920s: A Dark Decade
The 1920s were a tumultuous period in the United States, marked by significant social, political,
and economic changes. While the Roaring Twenties is often remembered for its cultural
vibrancy, economic prosperity, and the emergence of the "New Woman," it was also a time
when racism reached alarming heights. The era was characterized by a resurgence of white
supremacy, the rebirth of the Ku Klux Klan, and the enactment of discriminatory immigration
laws.
1. The Second Ku Klux Klan: In the early 1920s, the Ku Klux Klan experienced a resurgence
that saw its membership swell to millions across the country. The Klan, originally founded during
the Reconstruction era in the 1860s, was notorious for its white supremacist ideology and
violent tactics. In the 1920s, it primarily targeted African Americans but also extended its hatred
to immigrants, particularly those from Southern and Eastern Europe. The Klan's anti-immigrant
and anti-Catholic stance added another layer to the racism of the era.
2. Immigration Act of 1924: Perhaps the most significant piece of legislation that reflected the
anti-immigrant sentiment of the time was the Immigration Act of 1924, also known as the
Johnson-Reed Act. This law implemented strict quotas on immigration based on national
origins, effectively discriminating against non-European immigrants. The Act sought to preserve
the ethnic homogeneity of the United States and reflected the prevailing belief that certain racial
and ethnic groups were superior to others.
3. The Red Scare: The 1920s also saw the emergence of the "Red Scare," a period of intense
anti-communist hysteria. While not directly related to racism, the Red Scare exacerbated the
xenophobia of the era. Immigrants who were perceived as radical or sympathetic to communist
ideologies faced discrimination and deportation.
4. Racial Segregation: While the Jim Crow laws in the South enforced racial segregation
primarily against African Americans, it's important to note that immigrants of color also faced
discrimination. Asian immigrants, for instance, were subjected to severe restrictions and
discrimination, including the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 and the Japanese Internment during
World War II.
5. Eugenics Movement: The 1920s also witnessed the peak of the eugenics movement, which
promoted the idea of selective breeding to improve the human race. Eugenicists argued that
certain racial and ethnic groups were genetically inferior, leading to policies that enforced

2. sterilization of those deemed unfit to reproduce. This pseudoscience contributed to the racial
prejudices of the time.
Anti-Immigrant Sentiment: A Historical Perspective
The roots of anti-immigrant sentiment in the United States can be traced back to its earliest
history. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, various factors fueled this sentiment,
including economic competition, cultural clashes, and concerns about national identity.
1. Economic Concerns: Economic anxiety has often been a driving force behind anti-
immigrant sentiment. Immigrants, especially during times of economic hardship, were seen as
competitors for jobs and resources. This competition often led to resentment and hostility
towards newcomers.
2. Cultural Clashes: Cultural differences and the fear of change have also contributed to anti-
immigrant sentiment. Immigrants brought with them their customs, languages, and traditions,
which sometimes clashed with the established culture of the host country. This cultural tension
could lead to discrimination and prejudice.
3. Political Exploitation: Politicians have historically exploited anti-immigrant sentiment for
their own gain. Scapegoating immigrants and promising to protect the interests of native-born
citizens has been a common tactic to win votes. This political manipulation further exacerbated
anti-immigrant sentiment.
4. Fear of the "Other": Human psychology often leads us to fear what we don't understand.
Immigrants, especially those from different racial or ethnic backgrounds, were often perceived
as the "other." This fear of the unknown could result in prejudice and discrimination.
5. National Identity: Concerns about preserving a specific national identity have frequently
driven anti-immigrant sentiment. The idea that a nation should be homogenous and that certain
groups of people don't belong has been used to justify restrictive immigration policies.
The Enduring Legacy
The anti-immigrant sentiment and racism of the 1920s left a lasting legacy in the United States
and continue to influence immigration policies and social attitudes today. While significant
progress has been made in terms of civil rights and anti-discrimination laws, these issues
persist.
1. Immigration Policies: The Immigration Act of 1924 set the stage for subsequent immigration
policies. While the discriminatory national origins quotas were eliminated in the 1960s, debates
over immigration remain contentious. Today, discussions often revolve around issues such as
border security, DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), and the status of undocumented
immigrants.
2. Racial Tensions: Racial tensions and prejudice persist, despite efforts to combat
discrimination. Recent events, such as the Black Lives Matter movement and the rise of white
nationalist groups, highlight the ongoing struggle to achieve racial equality.

3. 3. Xenophobia and Fear of the "Other": Fear of immigrants and those who are perceived as
different remains a powerful force in politics and society. It is often stoked by political leaders
who use divisive rhetoric to gain support.
4. Cultural Diversity: America's cultural diversity has continued to expand, bringing both the
benefits of multiculturalism and the challenges of navigating cultural differences. In a globalized
world, understanding and acceptance of diversity are more important than ever.
Conclusion
Anti-immigrant sentiment and racism are deeply rooted issues in the history of the United States
and many other countries. The 1920s, with the resurgence of the Ku Klux Klan, the Immigration
Act of 1924, and the Red Scare, marked a particularly dark period in this history. While
significant progress has been made since then, these issues continue to shape our society and
politics.
Addressing anti-immigrant sentiment and racism requires ongoing effort, education, and a
commitment to the principles of equality and justice. Recognizing the historical context in which
these issues arose is an essential step in building a more inclusive and equitable society for all.