The following quote about the Immigration Act of 1882 was displayed during a time when immigration truly made our country great:
“Any immigrant deemed ‘liable to become a public charge was denied entry to the United States. To Ellis Island inspectors, this clause, which has been a cornerstone of federal immigration policy since 1882, meant those, who appeared unable to support themselves and were, therefore, likely to become a burden on society. Influenced by American welfare agencies that claimed they were being overwhelmed by requests for aid from impoverished immigrants, the Ellis Island inspectors carefully weighed the prospects of new arrivals, especially those of whomen and children intending to rejoin husbands and fathers in this country.”
