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Legislation

Naturalization Act of 1790 establishes first federal citizenship rules

Name: Naturalization Act of 1790 establishes first federal citizenship rules
Start: 1790-03-26
Location: United States

Congress enacted the Naturalization Act, which set the first federal rules for becoming a U.S. citizen, limiting naturalization to free white persons and prescribing a minimum residency requirement.

Created the initial national legal definition of citizenship and residency conditions, shaping early American immigration and racial policy.

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Event Details

Date: March 26, 1790
President: George Washington
Category: Legislation
Era: Founding Era

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