Historical Roots of Surveillance

The episode examines how America's existing infrastructure for federal surveillance and political repression developed from a number of historical events and societal fears. Initially, political repression methods were minimal, primarily relying on the post office and Congress, as evident with the passing of the Alien and Sedition Acts shortly after the Constitution's enactment. The narrative shifts dramatically after the assassination of President McKinley in 1901, driven by an anarchist, which prompted a nationwide crackdown on perceived threats. The Anarchist Exclusion Act of 1903 marked a turning point, showcasing the government's willingness to use legislative power to counter dissenting ideas, particularly targeting foreign nationals and influencing the trajectory of national security measures.