Name, Age, and Nationality:
Inspectors recorded detailed information about the individual's full name, age at the time of arrival, and their country of origin.
Occupation:
Individuals were asked about their occupation or trade. Often, additional details about their skills and experience were recorded to assess their potential value as contributors to the US economy.
Family Members and Relationships:
Inspectors inquired about the applicant's family members, including their spouse and children. If they were not traveling with their family, it was essential to establish their relationship to those family members who were accompanying them.
Transportation and Address:
Inspectors often asked about the mode of transportation used by the individual to arrive in the US, such as the name of the ship or the company they traveled with. They were also required to specify their intended destination and address in the US.
Health:
To maintain the health of the US population, inspectors screened individuals for infectious diseases and mental or physical disabilities that could impact their ability to earn a living or become a burden on society.
Criminal Record:
Individuals were questioned about prior convictions or involvement in criminal activities in their home countries. Those with a serious criminal record might face exclusion.
Political Views:
During certain historical periods, particularly in the early 20th century, immigration officials had the authority to exclude individuals who held political views considered radical or subversive, potentially leading to rejection if their ideologies didn't align with the US government's stance.
Ability to Support Oneself:
Inspectors sought evidence that individuals could support themselves and would not be reliant on public assistance. They might inquire about their financial resources and employment prospects.
Exclusionary Factors:
Certain individuals were excluded from entry, including individuals with serious mental or physical disabilities, those likely to become a public charge, and individuals who had violated US immigration laws in the past. Inspectors focused on identifying these individuals and denying them entry.
It's worth noting that the specific questions and procedures used during legal inspections could vary based on historical context and the immigration policies in place at the time.
