The Bracero Program

The Bracero Program was a labor agreement between the United States and Mexico from 1942 to 1964 that allowed millions of Mexican workers to temporarily migrate to the U.S. to fill labor shortages, primarily in agriculture and railway sectors. The program aimed to address the demand for labor during and after World War II. While it provided employment opportunities, it also faced criticism for poor working conditions and exploitation of workers. The Bracero Program played a significant role in shaping U.S. labor policies and the Mexican-American community, influencing immigration patterns that persist today.