1. Citizenship and Immigration
Mr. Riley
Foundations Lesson 3

2. 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

3. 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!!

4. 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

5. 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?

6. 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 ( ) came from Ireland, eastern Europe, and southern Europe; Ellis Island
Today most immigrants are from Latin America, followed by Asia

7. 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

8. 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