This section begins our examination of U.S. citizenship policy. Since 1952 was a turning point in U.S. citizenship laws, we're focusing first on pre-1952 laws. One of our first American immigration related policies determined who was eligible for naturalized citizenship. You will read that law and the (small) portion of a naturalization act 80 years later that expanded U.S. citizenship. Finally, you'll examine changes to naturalization policy in 1940.

Learning Objectives

Again, I understand that policy documents can be dense and even confusing. My goal for you is that you understand

What the law aims to do
How you think that will change the U.S. population
What you think this policy says about Americans' feelings about immigration

Powerpoint: U.S. Citizenship Law (Pre-1952)

To Do List

Read by:

October 22
- 1790 Immigration and Nationality Act
- Naturalization Act of 1870 – Chap. CCLIV, Sec. 7
- 1940 Nationality Act or https://tile.loc.gov/storage-services/service/ll/uscode/uscode1940-00100/uscode1940-001008011/uscode1940-001008011.pdf
  - Subchapter II – Nationality at Birth
    - pp. 455-456 (Stop at Oregon Territory)
  - Subchapter III
    - pp. 458 (Nationality Through Naturalization)
    - p.468 (Declaration of Intention)
    - p.471 (Oath of Renunciation and Allegiance)