Citizenship and Immigration Mr. Riley Foundations Lesson 3

Who Are American Citizens Constitution establishes two ways to become citizens Most common way is by birth in US, also if born in US territory or US military base If you are born elsewhere and one of your parents is a US citizen, you are also a US citizen in most circumstances; dual citizenship Foreigners become citizens through a legal process called naturalization

Naturalization Process Several million noncitizens, or aliens, live in the US; some come to work, study, or visit These people remain citizens of their home country and eventually return home People who plan to stay permanently are called immigrants Not this kind of Alien!!

Naturalization Process Aliens who want to become US citizens must sign a statement declaring their intentions They must live in the United States for 5 years After 5 years, if they are 18 and have lived in the same state for 3 months they can apply for citizenship After the paperwork is completed an interview is conducted, an exam covering citizenship and English is given If the application is granted, the immigrant pledges an oath and signs citizenship documents

Illegal Aliens in America The US restricts the number of immigrants who can enter the country People with relatives in the US and with in demand job skills usually receive preference People who enter the country illegally are called Illegal Aliens; approx. 12 million Most have illegally crossed our border with Mexico or over stayed their legal time Most come for economic opportunity even though it is illegal to hire them Positives and Negatives?

History of Immigration E pluribus unum, on the back of every coin, “Out of many, one”; meaning? Until the mid-1900’s most immigrants came from Europe Most early immigrants came from western Europe or were slaves (unwilling immigrant obviously) Later waves (1890-1924) came from Ireland, eastern Europe, and southern Europe; Ellis Island Today most immigrants are from Latin America, followed by Asia

A Diverse Population The American population is extraordinarily diverse in terms of ethnic backgrounds Whites are the majority, followed by Hispanics, and African Americans America also is very religiously diverse; Christianity is the largest religion Average age of citizens is going up; why? Record number of Americans are graduating from college The South and West are the fastest growing regions

Unity Among Citizens One source of unity among Americans is a common political heritage based on our founding documents A second source of unity is the common use of English; national language? Patriotism: love for one’s country What are some ways to show patriotism? Unity against terrorism, 9/11 Terrorism: use of violence by groups against civilians to achieve a political goal