dec 1, 1789 - The 1790 Naturalization Act (1 Stat. 103) establishes the country’s first uniform rule for naturalization. The law provides that “free white persons” who have resided in the United States for at least two years may be granted citizenship, so long as they demonstrate good moral character and swear allegiance to the Constitution. The law also provides that the children (under 21) of naturalized citizens shall also become US citizens.
Added to timeline:
Date:
dec 1, 1789
Now
~ 235 years ago