The refusal by President Donald Trump to sign
the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act on the grounds that Congress must first pass legislation that would require proof of citizenship for all voters has once again highlighted the often slow and difficult path to promulgating law by the legislature can take.
The housing bill, an extensive legislative package aimed at lowering the cost of housing, has bipartisan support and was set for a signing ceremony before it was blocked. The landmark act is designed to make it easier and more affordable for Americans to buy a home, and enjoys widespread public support.
But throughout US history there have been cases where some of the most historic acts passed have proven so unpopular they've sparked nationwide division and protest. These include landmark pieces of legislation such as the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 and the Volstead Act of 1919, better known as the Prohibition Act.
In this gallery, we examine eight acts of legislation that were so deeply divisive that the laws fueled an immediate and dramatic public backlash. Click on to continue reading.