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The Beginning
Only free white men were considered citizens. -
First Naturalization Act
The first naturalization act stated that any free white male or female who has lived within the jurisdiction of the United States for at least 2 years may be granted citizenship.
https://socialwelfare.library.vcu.edu/federal/naturalization-process-in-u-s-early-history/ -
The act of January 29, 1795
The length of time required for citizenship was increased from 2 years to 5 years. Any allegiance to foreign nations must be renounced. -
Dred Scott v. Sandford
The Supreme Court ruled that enslaved people are not citizens, therefore they have no rights under the constitution.
https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/dred-scott-v-sandford -
The 14th Amendment
The 14th amendment of the constitution granted citizenship to anyone born or naturalized in the United States. Including those who were previously enslaved, and guaranteed equal protection under the law.
https://www.senate.gov/about/origins-foundations/senate-and-constitution/14th-amendment.htm -
Naturalization Act of 1870
This act extended naturalization rights to anyone of African descent. This act still excluded any non-whites, with the exception of African Americans. https://immigrationhistory.org/item/naturalization-act-of-1870/ -
Expatriation Act of 1907
Any female citizen of the United States will be stripped of their citizenship if they should marry any non-citizen.
https://immigrationhistory.org/item/an-act-in-reference-to-the-expatriation-of-citizens-and-their-protection-abroad/ -
Jones-Shafroth Act
Puerto Rican citizens were granted American citizenship after the US acquired the island.
https://www.loc.gov/rr/hispanic/1898/jonesact.html -
Indian Citizenship Act
All Native Americans born in the US are to be granted citizenship.
https://www.archives.gov/historical-docs/todays-doc/?dod-date=602 -
Magnuson Act
China was placed under the same immigration laws as Europe.
https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/chinese-exclusion-act