What are the United States Statutes at Large?,www.govinfo.gov


Okay, let’s gently unpack this news from www.govinfo.gov. The government publishing office has released “United States Statutes at Large, Volume 39, 64th Congress, 2nd Session” on December 19, 2024. While this might sound a bit dry, it’s actually a really important release, providing a window into the laws enacted by the United States way back when.

Here’s a more detailed look, keeping it friendly and easy to understand:

What are the United States Statutes at Large?

Think of the “Statutes at Large” as a complete and chronological collection of all the laws passed by Congress in a given session. Each volume contains the full text of every public and private law, as well as resolutions, that became law during that period. It’s the official record of what Congress actually decided and put into effect. It’s different from the United States Code, which organizes laws by subject matter, whereas the Statutes at Large is in chronological order.

Why is Volume 39 Significant?

Volume 39 covers the 2nd Session of the 64th Congress. This Congress was in session from 1916 to 1917, during a pivotal time in American history. Consider the context:

  • World War I: The United States was still officially neutral during most of this period, but the war loomed large. Laws related to national defense, preparedness, and foreign policy were likely a major focus. Expect to find legislation dealing with military funding, shipbuilding, and potentially even the beginning stages of war preparations.
  • Progressive Era: The Progressive Era was in full swing. This means you’d likely find laws dealing with:
    • Labor: Child labor laws, worker’s compensation, and regulations on working conditions.
    • Business: Anti-trust legislation, regulation of railroads, and consumer protection.
    • Social Reform: Temperance movements and perhaps early legislation related to women’s suffrage (though the 19th Amendment wasn’t ratified until 1920).
  • Immigration: Immigration was a hot topic, and you might find laws related to immigration quotas, naturalization, and the treatment of immigrants.

What Can You Expect to Find Inside?

Without having the specific table of contents, we can only speculate, but based on the historical context, here are some examples of the types of laws you might find:

  • Appropriations bills: How the government was funding its operations and various departments.
  • Laws related to the military and national defense.
  • Legislation dealing with infrastructure projects.
  • Laws related to Native American affairs and land management.
  • Potentially, the seed of legislation leading to the US entry into World War 1.

Why is this Release Important Today?

  • Historical Research: For historians, legal scholars, and anyone interested in American history, this volume is a primary source. It allows researchers to see the exact wording of the laws that shaped the era.
  • Legal Precedent: While laws change over time, understanding the historical context of legislation can be important for interpreting current laws. Sometimes, older laws or the reasoning behind them can still have legal relevance.
  • Understanding Our Past: It offers insights into the values, priorities, and concerns of American society at the time. It’s a chance to understand how the country grappled with the challenges of the early 20th century.
  • Transparency: The release of this volume ensures public access to historical government documents, promoting transparency and accountability.

Where Can You Access It?

The document is available on govinfo.gov. You can follow the link provided to access the text. govinfo.gov is the official website for accessing authentic, published government documents.

In Conclusion:

The release of “United States Statutes at Large, Volume 39, 64th Congress, 2nd Session” is a significant event for those interested in American history and law. It provides a valuable resource for understanding the legislative landscape of the United States during a crucial period. While it might seem like a niche topic, it’s a vital piece of the puzzle in understanding the evolution of American society and governance. It’s a bit like finding a time capsule – offering a direct glimpse into the decisions and concerns of a bygone era.


United States Statutes at Large, Volume 39, 64th Congress, 2nd Session


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www.govinfo.gov published ‘United States Statutes at Large, Volume 39, 64th Congress, 2nd Session’ at 2024-12-19 15:35. Please write a detailed article about this news, including related information, in a gentle tone. Please answer only in English.

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