What was the primary purpose of U.S. immigration policies during the Cold War?

The primary purpose of U.S. immigration policies during the Cold War was to prevent the spread of communism. This was a period marked by intense geopolitical rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union, and the U.S. government sought to create a favorable environment both domestically and internationally that could resist communist influences. By regulating immigration, the U.S. aimed not only to admit individuals who could be beneficial in countering communist ideologies—such as skilled professionals and those fleeing oppressive regimes—but also to demonstrate the advantages of capitalism and democracy compared to communism. The fear of the potential influx of individuals sympathetic to communist ideas also shaped these policies, leading to a focus on screening and controlling who could enter the country during this critical period.