The immigration restriction legislation of the 1920s was a response to concerns about:

The immigration restriction legislation of the 1920s was primarily a response to concerns about the perceived impact of immigration from Southern and Eastern Europe. During this time, a significant influx of immigrants from these regions, many of whom were fleeing poverty and political unrest, raised fears among segments of the American population regarding cultural differences, job competition, and the spread of radical ideologies. These anxieties prompted legislators to implement quotas that heavily favored immigrants from Northern and Western Europe, effectively limiting the number of immigrants from Southern and Eastern European countries. This legislation reflected broader societal concerns about maintaining a certain national identity and the belief that immigrants from these regions were less likely to assimilate into American culture.