This document summarizes key policies and events in U.S. immigration history and citizenship. It discusses the gradual imposition of immigration limits starting in 1882 with the Chinese Exclusion Act, and continuing with quotas established in the 1920s. It also outlines the naturalization process required to become a U.S. citizen, including residency requirements, English language ability, knowledge of U.S. history and government, and taking an oath of allegiance to the U.S. Constitution.

1. U.S. Citizenship

2. Immigration Policy Since 1776, 70 million immigrants have come to the US Before 1882, no limits on immigration 1882: Chinese Exclusion Act Immigration Acts (1921 & 1924) National Origins Act 1929 (quotas) Quotas end in 1965 Immigration Reform Act of 1965 (Preference System) Undocumented Aliens Papers (Passport, Visa, Entry Permit) Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 (Amnesty & Criminalized Employment) Since 9/11, immigration more strongly enforced

3. Immigration Reform and Control Act (1986) Immigration Reform Act (1965) Immigration Acts (1921 & 1924) Chinese Exclusion Acts (1882) National Origins Act (1929)

5. Immigration in 2000 Source: NY Times Immigration Explorer

6. Rights of Noncitizens Status: Undocumented Aliens Resident Alien (Lawful Permanent Resident) Nonresident Alien Refugee Rights: May not vote May not serve on jury Freedom of movement limited No obligation to join military Must pay taxes and obey laws Deportation for serious crimes

7. Citizenship Born in the United States or US territories (Guam, Puerto Rico, Virgin Island, etc.) Naturalization=process of becoming a citizen Before 1868 only whites were considered citizens (14th Amendment) Duties of Citizens: Know their rights Respect the Law Pay Taxes Become informed voters Serve on Juries Work at Polls on Election Day Join groups for causes they are interested in Write to elected officials about their views Take part in political life of the nation

8. Naturalization Basic Requirements: 18 years of age Entered the national legally Have lived in the US for at least 5 years Additional Requirements: Be able to read, write, and speak English (over age 50 or lived in US for 20 years not required) Be of good “moral character” Support the Constitution and the United States Know basic information about the history and government of the United States Process: File petition for naturalization Pay an application fee Be interviewed by an immigration official Have 2 witnesses testify to the person’s character Pass the Citizenship test Take the oath of affirmation

9. Oath of Affirmation “I hereby declare, on oath, that I absolutely and entirely renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignty of whom or which I have heretofore been a subject or citizen; that I will support and defend the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I will bear arms on behalf of the United States when required by law; that I will perform noncombatant service in the Armed Forces when required by law; or that I will perform work of national importance under civilian direction when required by law; and that I take this obligation freely without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion: So help me God.”