Divided by a Common Language: The Babel Proclamation and its Influence in Iowa History.

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Bibliographic Details
Title:	Divided by a Common Language: The Babel Proclamation and its Influence in Iowa History.
Authors:	Frese, Stephen J.¹
Source:	History Teacher. Nov2005, Vol. 39 Issue 1, p59-88. 30p.
Subject Terms:	Discrimination (Sociology), Language & languages, *Legislation, Prejudices, Anti-German propaganda, German language, Cultural assimilation
Geographic Terms:	Iowa
People:	Harding, William Lloyd, 1877-1934
Abstract:	This article provides information on the Babel Proclamation, issued by Iowa Governor William L. Harding on May 23, 1918, which legitimized expressions of prejudice against German and war-time fanaticism. Harding became the only governor in the U.S. to outlaw the public use of all foreign languages. His understanding of immigrant assimilation offers insight into subsequent efforts to create unity through legislation. On March 4, 2002, the Iowa English Language Reaffirmation Act reestablished English as the official language of government in Iowa.
Database:	Education Research Complete

Description
Abstract:	This article provides information on the Babel Proclamation, issued by Iowa Governor William L. Harding on May 23, 1918, which legitimized expressions of prejudice against German and war-time fanaticism. Harding became the only governor in the U.S. to outlaw the public use of all foreign languages. His understanding of immigrant assimilation offers insight into subsequent efforts to create unity through legislation. On March 4, 2002, the Iowa English Language Reaffirmation Act reestablished English as the official language of government in Iowa.
ISSN:	00182745
DOI:	10.2307/30036745