17 Laws from the 20th Century That Would Spark Massive Protests Today
In an ever-evolving society, some laws from the past may seem archaic or out of touch with contemporary beliefs. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st Century, here are 17 laws from the 19th and 20th centuries that would horrify us today:
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Jim Crow Laws (Late 19th to Mid-20th Century)
These state and local laws enforced racial segregation in the Southern United States, relegating African Americans to inferior facilities and denying them fundamental civil rights. Today, any attempt to implement such segregationist policies would be met with fierce opposition and condemnation for their blatant discrimination.
Chinese Exclusion Act (1882)
The Chinese Exclusion Act marked a dark chapter in American history, as it prohibited immigration of Chinese laborers and perpetuated xenophobia and discrimination against Asian immigrants. Today, in a society that celebrates diversity and inclusivity, such discriminatory immigration policies would be vehemently opposed.
Internment of Japanese Americans (1942-1945)
During World War II, over 100,000 Japanese Americans were forcibly relocated and incarcerated in internment camps, solely based on their ethnicity, under the guise of national security. This egregious violation of civil liberties and human rights would be met with outrage today.
The Defense of Marriage Act (1996)
The Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) defined marriage as a legal union between one man and one woman, denying federal recognition of same-sex marriages and perpetuating discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. In today’s society, which increasingly embraces marriage equality and LGBTQ+ rights, such legislation would face fierce opposition and legal challenges.
Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (1994-2011)
Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (DADT) was a policy that prohibited openly gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals from serving in the US military, forcing LGBTQ+ service members to conceal their identities to avoid discrimination and discharge. Today, any attempt to reinstate such discriminatory practices would be met with widespread condemnation.
Segregation of Public Schools (Until 1954)
Before the landmark Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education, racial segregation was legal in many parts of the country, perpetuating systemic inequality in education and denying African American children equal access to resources and opportunities. Today, any attempt to segregate schools based on race would be fiercely opposed.
Poll Taxes and Literacy Tests (Until 1965)
Poll taxes and literacy tests were used in the South to disenfranchise African American voters, denying them their constitutional right to vote and perpetuating systemic racism and inequality. Today, efforts to suppress voting rights face widespread opposition and mobilization.
The Indian Removal Act (1830)
The Indian Removal Act authorized the forced relocation of Native American tribes from their ancestral lands. This resulted in immense suffering and loss of life, particularly during the Trail of Tears. Today, any attempt to infringe upon indigenous sovereignty and rights would be met with widespread indigenous activism and solidarity.
The Sedition Act of 1918
The Sedition Act of 1918 criminalized speech deemed critical or disloyal to the US government, suppressing dissent and free expression during World War I. Today, such restrictions on free speech would face fierce opposition from advocates of civil liberties and freedom of expression.
Redlining (1930s-1968)
Redlining was a discriminatory practice by banks and insurers that systematically denied services, such as loans and insurance, to people based on their race or ethnicity, perpetuating economic inequality and segregation. Today, any form of institutional discrimination would be met with demands for accountability and reparations.
Hyde Amendment (1976)
The Hyde Amendment banned the use of federal funds for abortion services, disproportionately impacting low-income individuals and restricting their reproductive rights. Today, the Hyde Amendment remains a focal point for advocacy and calls for its repeal, as society recognizes the importance of reproductive autonomy and access to comprehensive healthcare for all individuals.
War on Drugs Policies (1970s-1990s)
The War on Drugs policies disproportionately targeted communities of color, leading to mass incarceration and perpetuating racial disparities in the criminal justice system. Today, amid a national reckoning on racial justice and criminal justice reform, the discriminatory impact of such policies is widely recognized, fueling demands for legalization and decriminalization of drug offenses.
The Immigration Act of 1924
The Immigration Act of 1924 imposed strict quotas based on national origin, effectively limiting immigration from non-European countries and perpetuating xenophobia and nativism. Today, any attempt to enact such restrictive immigration policies would be met with outcry and advocacy for immigrant rights.
Mental Health Institutions (Throughout the 20th Century)
Mental health institutions throughout much of the 20th Century subjected patients to inhumane treatment and neglect, violating their dignity and autonomy. Today, efforts to reform mental health care focus on community-based support and destigmatization, challenging the legacy of institutionalization and advocating for holistic approaches to mental health and well-being.
The Communications Decency Act (1996)
The Communications Decency Act aimed to regulate indecent and obscene content on the internet, raising concerns about censorship and freedom of speech online. Today, debates over internet regulation continue, focusing on balancing free expression with the need to address harmful content and protect vulnerable users.
Hydrocarbon Pollution Act (1900s)
Throughout much of the 20th Century, lax environmental regulations allowed widespread pollution from industries such as oil and gas, leading to devastating environmental and public health consequences. Today, there is a growing movement for environmental justice and stricter regulations to address the climate crisis and protect communities from pollution.
The Comstock Law (1873)
The Comstock Law criminalized the distribution of obscene materials. That might seem ordinary, except that it included information about contraception and abortion, perpetuating reproductive health stigma and limiting access to essential reproductive health care. Today, any attempts to restrict access to information and services would face fierce resistance.
16 Famous Comedians Whose Jokes Are Forbidden in Today’s World
Related:In the ever-evolving comedy landscape, societal norms and sensitivities play a significant role in shaping acceptable humor. Over the years, certain comedians who were once celebrated for their wit and sharp humor have found themselves in hot water for jokes now deemed offensive or inappropriate. Here are 16 famous comedians whose jokes are forbidden in today’s world.
