Forced sterilization in the state of California from 1909 to 1979: A historical and legal analysis

Abstract

This historical and legal analysis examines the phenomenon of forced sterilization in California between 1909 and 1979, a period marked by the implementation of eugenic policies aimed at improving the genetic composition of the population. Through a detailed examination of the legal frameworks, key court cases, and the socio-political context, this study reveals how eugenic ideology gained acceptance, which led to the sterilization of thousands of individuals under the guise of societal betterment. The analysis delves into the ethical, legal, and historical dimensions of these practices and it highlights the role of California as a focal point in the broader national and international discourse on eugenics and human rights. The gradual rejection of eugenic ideology as well as the shift towards recognizing and compensating victims reflect a critical reassessment of the past injustices and underscore the importance of ethical considerations in medical and legal practices.