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The United States of America is established as a country and citizenry of the U.S. is created
During this time period, only white men and women who lived in the U.S. for 2 or more years were eligible to become American citizen. Immigrants and African American slaves were not qualified/eligible for the citizenry. -
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Timeline of U.S. Citizenry Events
This is a brief timespan of America's citizenry evolution. -
Creation of the 14th Amendment
The Civil War was caused by a number of issues, the legalization of slavery being one of them. Due to the Union winning the war, slavery was abolished. Therefore, African Americans who were born within the U.S. or freed from slavery were considered U.S. citizens and were entitled to life, liberty, and property after the 14th Amendment was passed. -
Immigration Act of 1882
During this time period, a large fluctuation of immigrants poured into the United States, causing an imbalance in citizens and their well-being. Because of this, President Arthur and Congress created what is known as America's first immigration act. This law created restrictions, or in other words, qualifications an immigrant must meet in order to enter the country. For example, they were to be well-kept, responsible, and able to care for themselves. -
Immigration Act of 1891
Similar to the act of 1882, this immigration law focused on creating more restrictions for newcomers. For example, new immigration officers were to ensure the person had a clean bill of health, was not a danger to others, etc. -
Opening of Ellis Island in New York City.
Ellis Island was the first official immigration station in the United States. Approximately 12 million immigrants arrived through this station within its lifespan of 62 years. -
Immigration Act of 1917 and 1924
These immigration acts had a similar purpose to the others, which was to create more restrictions for immigrants entering the U.S...Specifically speaking, the act of 1917 created literacy restrictions on immigrants, making it harder for 3rd world immigrants to be allowed entry. Meanwhile, the act of 1924 created a limitation of how many immigrants were allowed in the country per year. -
Displaced Persons Act of 1948
After the terrors of World War II, thousands of European refugees fled to America. In order to create space for these refugees and to maintain a balance, accommodations were made, and the Europeans found permanent residence within the U.S. -
Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965
This act disregarded 45 years of U.S. regulation by abolishing the natural origin immigration system held by the U.S. since 1920. With this act, immigrants migrating from the non-European territory were allowed entry into the U.S.