Evolution of the national citizenry

Indigenous Peoples

1776

Native American tribes inhabited the land for thousands of years.
The arrival of European settlers led to conflicts and displacement.

1776: Independence and Citizenship

1776

The Declaration of Independence proclaimed equality, but it primarily applied to white, male landowners.
Indigenous peoples and enslaved Africans were excluded.

Late 1700s - Early 1800s: Slavery and Discrimination

1790

Slavery institutionalized, denying African Americans citizenship and basic rights.
Indigenous populations faced forced removals (e.g., Trail of Tears).

Emancipation and Reconstruction

1865

The 13th Amendment abolishes slavery.
Reconstruction era attempts to grant civil rights to freed slaves, but discriminatory practices persist.

1920: Women's Suffrage

1920

19th Amendment grants women the right to vote.
However, voting rights still restricted for many African Americans.

Japanese American Internment

1942

Executive Order 9066 results in the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.

1950s-1960s: Civil Rights Movement

1950

The struggle for racial equality gains momentum.
Brown v. Board of Education (1954) desegregates schools.
Civil Rights Act (1964) and Voting Rights Act (1965) aim to end racial discrimination.

Native American Activism

1960

The Red Power movement advocates for Native American rights.
Indigenous populations assert their cultural and political identity.

Immigration and Nationality Act

1965

• Ends discriminatory quotas based on nationality, and opens doors for diverse immigration.

Late 20th Century: LGBTQ+ Rights Movement

2000

• Stonewall Riots (1969) mark the beginning of the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
• Progress towards recognition and protection of LGBTQ+ rights.

21st Century: Continued Struggles and Progress

2001

• Ongoing debates on immigration policies and paths to citizenship.
• Continued efforts for racial equality, justice, and inclusivity.