The Melting Pot

Start of citizenship in the U.S.

Mar 26, 1790

Naturalization Act was passed by congress. Stating any free white, male, adult alien or female whom resided in the U.S. for 2 years was eligible for citizenship.

Immigrants

1800

More and more immigrants were coming into the U.S. The rules of citizenship had to change.

Civil War

1868

After the civil war, citizenship was granted to African Americans.

Naturalizaiton

1880

Naturalization papers were handed out. Pledging loyalty to the U.S. The Immigrants had to study history and remember laws and then pass a test.

Marriage

1888

Indian women married to white men were granted citizenship through marriage but had no right to vote.

Voting

1890

American Indian men who owned land and paid taxes were granted the right to vote.

World War I

1919

American Indian men who fought in World War I were granted citizenship.

Indian Citizenship Act

1924

This act gave citizenship to all American Indians in the U.S. This also meant that all men, women, and children could vote once they were 21.