Introduction

The topic of Mexican immigration in the United States has been a subject of much debate and controversy. One of the most pressing questions surrounding this issue is: when did Mexican immigration become illegal? This article aims to delve into the historical context, legal changes, and the implications of this question.

Historical Context

The immigration of Mexicans to the United States dates back to the early 19th century. Initially, the influx of Mexican immigrants was not considered illegal. In fact, many Mexicans came to the United States seeking economic opportunities, similar to their ancestors who had migrated to the United States in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Over time, the relationship between the United States and Mexico evolved, and the issue of immigration began to take on a more complex nature. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, which ended the Mexican-American War, resulted in the annexation of a significant portion of Mexican territory to the United States. This event further solidified the cultural and economic ties between the two countries, leading to an increased number of Mexicans migrating to the United States.

Legal Changes

The concept of Mexican immigration becoming illegal is not a straightforward answer. The legal status of Mexican immigrants in the United States has undergone various changes over the years. One of the earliest pieces of legislation addressing immigration was the Naturalization Act of 1790, which imposed restrictions on naturalization for immigrants, including Mexicans.

However, it was not until the early 20th century that the United States began to implement stricter immigration policies. The Emergency Quota Act of 1921, followed by the Immigration Act of 1924, established quotas based on national origin, effectively limiting the number of immigrants from certain countries, including Mexico. While these laws did not explicitly make Mexican immigration illegal, they significantly restricted the number of Mexicans entering the United States.

The Bracero Program

The Bracero Program, established in 1942, allowed Mexican laborers to work in the United States under temporary contracts. Although the program was intended to be a temporary solution, it lasted until 1964. During this time, Mexican immigrants were legally allowed to enter the United States to work in agriculture and other sectors.

However, the Bracero Program also highlighted the complexities of Mexican immigration. The program led to the exploitation of Mexican workers, as they were often subjected to poor working conditions and low wages. This exploitation, along with the expiration of the program, contributed to the perception that Mexican immigration was becoming illegal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the question of when Mexican immigration became illegal is not easily answered. While the United States has implemented various laws and policies that have restricted the number of Mexicans entering the country, the concept of Mexican immigration becoming illegal is a complex issue that cannot be attributed to a single event or law. The historical context, legal changes, and the implications of these changes have shaped the current debate on Mexican immigration in the United States.