The 1890 Immigration Act

The 1890 Immigration Act was a U.S. law that significantly restricted immigration, primarily targeting Asian immigrants. It established strict quotas and prohibited Chinese laborers from entering the country, reflecting widespread anti-Asian sentiment. The law aimed to limit the number and types of immigrants, prioritizing those from Northern and Western Europe. It also set up new immigration processing procedures at ports like Ellis Island. Overall, the act marked a shift toward more restrictive immigration policies, emphasizing racial and national origins to shape the makeup of incoming populations.