Motivation for Naturalization
Back in the mid- to late- 1800s, when many people did not read or write [English], what would the motivation be to apply for US naturalization? I assume that people were just happy to be someplace safe and be together. Why change your citizenship? Were there laws that were enforced?
Thank you for any help with this rather generic question. Anne
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Re: Motivation for Naturalization
One area was equal protection of the law -- and spouse and children got the citizenship status as well. A naturalized citizen could not so easily be deported at the drop of a hat, and had more property rights than a non-citizen. Ability to vote and even run for office was a factor in many communities.
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Re: Motivation for Naturalization
There are 3 other reasons that I have heard from older members of my immigrant ancestors. - Perceived assimilation. They wanted to be seen as Americans and this was the most obvious outward sign. - For those who escaped conscription, whether into the Czar's army or the Italian army, there was the fear that they would be found and forced to return as citizens of their native country. - The desire to visit ailing or dying parents in the home country without fear that they would not be readmitted to the US.
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Re: Motivation for Naturalization
Thank you for your viewpoint. I will now look harder for naturalization information for my ancestors. Thanks again. Anne
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Re: Motivation for Naturalization
All very good reasons...that I never thought of. Thank you for your help. Anne
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