Okay, here’s a gentle and informative article about the recent release of the 1957 Statutes at Large, Volume 71, from govinfo.gov:
Govinfo.gov Opens a Window to the Past: 1957 Statutes at Large Now Available
In a move that brings history a little closer to home, govinfo.gov, the official website providing free public access to U.S. government information, has released the “United States Statutes at Large, Volume 71, 85th Congress, 1st Session.” This publication, dated December 19, 2024, at 4:00 PM ET, offers a detailed record of the laws passed during the first session of the 85th Congress, which convened in 1957.
Think of the Statutes at Large as a comprehensive snapshot of a particular year in American legal history. It’s more than just a list of laws; it’s a meticulously organized compilation of every act of Congress, treaties ratified, and presidential proclamations issued during that specific session.
What’s Inside This Time Capsule?
While we don’t have the specific details of every law included in Volume 71 without delving into the document itself (available at the provided URL), knowing the context of 1957 gives us a strong sense of the types of issues the U.S. government was grappling with. It was a time of:
- The Cold War: Expect to see legislation related to national defense, foreign aid, and perhaps even early space exploration initiatives. The Soviet Union’s launch of Sputnik that year dramatically shifted the landscape of international relations and spurred significant legislative action.
- Civil Rights Movement: While the landmark Civil Rights Act was still several years away, 1957 saw crucial steps taken. Expect to see legislation related to voting rights and other measures aimed at addressing racial inequality. The Civil Rights Act of 1957 itself was passed during this Congress (though possibly during the second session).
- Economic Growth and Post-War Expansion: The American economy was booming in the mid-1950s. Look for laws concerning infrastructure projects, housing, and perhaps even initiatives to manage the burgeoning population.
- Continuing Post-War Adjustments: Legislation relating to veterans’ affairs, the GI Bill, and the ongoing process of demobilization would likely have been present.
Why is This Important?
The release of these historical records is significant for a number of reasons:
- Historical Research: Historians, legal scholars, and anyone interested in American history now have a readily accessible primary source document. It allows for a deeper understanding of the legislative process and the issues that shaped the era.
- Legal Precedent: While many laws have been amended or repealed over time, the Statutes at Large provide essential context for understanding the evolution of U.S. law. They can be crucial for legal research and interpretation.
- Transparency and Public Access: Govinfo.gov’s commitment to providing free access to government information is a cornerstone of a democratic society. This release ensures that these vital historical records are available to everyone.
- Genealogical Research: Sometimes, legal notices, name changes, and other relatively minor matters are included that could be helpful for genealogical research.
How to Access It
You can access the “United States Statutes at Large, Volume 71, 85th Congress, 1st Session” directly through this link: https://www.govinfo.gov/app/details/STATUTE-71
Govinfo.gov provides tools for searching, browsing, and downloading the document, making it easy to explore this fascinating piece of American history.
In essence, the release of Volume 71 of the Statutes at Large is more than just a routine update. It’s an invitation to step back in time and examine the legal landscape of a pivotal year in American history, offering valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of the past. It’s a reminder of the constant evolution of our laws and the ongoing pursuit of a more just and equitable society.
United States Statutes at Large, Volume 71, 85th Congress, 1st Session
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www.govinfo.gov published ‘United States Statutes at Large, Volume 71, 85th Congress, 1st Session’ at 2024-12-19 16:00. Please write a detailed article about this news, including related information, in a gentle tone. Please answer only in English.