Evolution of the national citizenry

By liamg123

  • Declaration of Independence declares that "all men are created equal," however, the definition of "men" was limited to white, property-owning males.

  • United States Constitution is drafted, recognizing slavery and counting slaves as three-fifths of a person.

  • The international slave trade is prohibited, however domestic slavery is still allowed.

  • Dred Scott v. Sandford decision denied citizenship to liberated slaves.

  • The 13th Amendment is added to the constitution abolishing slavery.

  • 14th Amendment establishes birthright citizenship stating "all persons born or naturalized in the United States" are guaranteed equal protection and representation under the constitution, overruling the Dred Scott decision.

  • The 15th Amendment is ratified granting voting rights to citizens regardless of race, however, discriminatory policies would limit access to voting for minorities.

  • The Chinese Exclusion Act is passed allowing for the restriction of Chinese labor immigration.

  • Jim Crow laws begin to be enforced, establishing racial segregation in the South, and limiting the rights of African Americans.

  • Plessy vs. Ferguson deems separate but equal as constitutional, allowing for the continuation of segregation.

  • Naturalization Act of 1906 establishes standardized procedures for naturalization, requiring immigrants to learn English and pass a citizenship test.

  • Congress passes the 19th amendment providing voting rights to Women.

  • The Indian Citizenship Act is passed granting citizenship to Native Americans, however, state laws still imposed limitations on voting rights.

  • The Indian Citizenship Act was passed, granting citizenship to Native Americans. However, state laws still limited their voting rights.

  • Immigration Act established quotas, favoring Western and Northern Europeans over Southern and Eastern Europeans and Asians.

  • Brown v. Board of Education overturned Plessy vs. Ferguson's decision, allowing for the desegregation of schools.

  • The Civil Rights Act is passed prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, and sex.

  • The Voting Rights Act is passed removing voter restrictions imposed on African Americans.

  • Immigration and Nationality Act abolishes national origin quotas, prioritizing family reunification and skilled workers.

  • Refugee Act establishes a standardized process for admitting refugees, including those fleeing persecution.

  • The USA PATRIOT Act introduces stricter immigration controls in response to the 9/11 attacks.