The Alien Registration Act, also called the Smith Act, was an “Act to prohibit certain subversive activities; to amend certain provisions of law with respect to the admission and deportation of aliens; to require the fingerprinting and registration of aliens; and for other purposes.”
It made it illegal to help or promote the overthrow or destruction of the Government. It also required that all persons who were not citizens or nationals of the United States and were living within U.S. borders go to the local post office and register their alien status with the Government. The registration process included filling out a questionnaire and having fingerprints taken. Certain exclusions applied for diplomats, employees of foreign governments, and children under the age of 14.
