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The economic collapse that began in 1929 presented an unprecedented challenge to the administration of President Hoover. Committed to essentially letting the economic cycle run its course, the administration sought to reduce unemployment by restricting the nation's labor supply. The Hoover administration targeted immigrants who would compete with United States citizens for a diminishing supply of jobs. The plan was comprised of several parts. The government sought to reduce illegal immigration across land borders. It also tightened the financial qualifications of potential immigrants to ensure that those who were permitted to immigrate would not add to the burden on the limited social services then available in the United States. The administration's plan appealed to nativist sentiments held by American citizens. These sentiments were intensified by the economic crisis.

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