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Colonization
European settlers begin to establish colonies in the "New World" -
Decleration of Independence
Decleration of independance from Europe states that "all men are equal" -
Treaty of Paris
Revolutionary War ends and America is recognized as its own country. -
U S Constitution
Only discussion of citizenship is in the criteria to hold office -
Naturalization Act
Rules for granting citizenship. One must be a "free white person of good character" -
Foreign Slave Trade Prohibited
stops importation of slaves, but does nothing for those who are already in the US and enslaved -
Dred Scott v Sanford
People of color could not be American Citizens whether they are free or not. -
13th Amendment
Abolishment of slavery -
Civil Rights Act
All persons born in the US are citizens regardless of race or color -
14th Amendment
All people born in the US get equal protection under the law -
15th Amendment
Can't deny a citizen the right to vote based on color or race.