Opinions Throughout History: Refugees & Asylum Seekers

Issitt (Opinions Throughout History: Voters’ Rights) ably demonstrates that immigration is not just a contemporary issue but one that has been a challenge in American history since colonial days. In 28 chapters of chronologically arranged topical essays, he covers a wide range of subjects such as quotas, racial bans, evolving asylum laws, and changing American attitudes toward refugees. The book begins with a general introduction defining the term refugee as well as an overview of the legal refugee system and refugee law, thereby establishing parameters for the ensuing chapters. Each chapter has a brief introduction, a list of topics and source documents covered in the chapter, and several pages of exposition, which include historical background and current public opinion. Photos, images, and other illustrations augment the well-written and well-informed text. Chapters end with a list of works cited, a brief conclusion, and questions for classroom or small group discussion. A concluding chapter highlights concerns, challenges, and solutions for future refugee crises, keeping in mind global crises that may be impactful. A time line and a “Historical Snapshots” section of bulleted political, social, and cultural developments since 1880 provide excellent context.