Green Card


Brief Overview

Green card“ for Dagny Jensen

19512002.044.007- Gift of Dagny E. Holmbo Jensen estate


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A change in attitude after WWI resulted in an increased mistrust of foreigners, particularly those from poorer countries in southern and eastern Europe. The immigration act of 1921 set quotas based on national origin.

The Alien Registration Act of 1940 made it illegal for anyone in the United States to teach or advocate the overthrow of the government. It also required all aliens to file a comprehensive statement of their personal status and political beliefs. It also meant that all changes of address had to be reported immediately.
Much of this was due to the fear of Communism. Among the questions asked on temporary visa applications one might find "Have you ever written a letter to a communist?"