Why it Was Illegal to be Ugly?

The video explores the history of 'ugly laws' in the US, which were discriminatory laws targeting people with disabilities, injuries, or those deemed 'unsightly.' These laws emerged in the late 19th century and were used to remove such individuals from public view. The video discusses the origins, spread, and eventual decline of these laws, highlighting key cases and societal impacts. It also covers the loopholes that allowed some to work in dehumanizing conditions, such as circuses. The decline of ugly laws coincided with the rise of disability rights, culminating in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, which aimed to ensure equal opportunities for all citizens.

What were the primary intentions behind the ugly laws that were enacted in the US?

How did the ugly laws affect individuals with disabilities in terms of employment opportunities?

What were some of the loopholes in the ugly laws that allowed individuals to circumvent employment restrictions?

What historical context led to the rise of ugly laws in the late 19th and early 20th centuries?

What were the consequences of the enforcement of ugly laws on the social fabric of cities during their existence?

Discuss the implications of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 in relation to ugly laws.

How did public perception of individuals with disabilities change as a result of the ugly laws?