Naturalization — Social Studies definition
The legal process by which an eligible noncitizen becomes a citizen.
Where it is taught
- Immigration, Exclusion & Urban Communities — Industry, Migration & Urban Life, U.S. History: Reconstruction to the Early 21st Century, Grade 8
- Immigration, Exclusion, Cities & Political Membership — Industry, Migration & Gilded Age Politics, United States History & Government: Colonial Foundations to the Early 21st Century, Grade 11
In use
Naturalization, meaning a legal process for becoming a citizen, was distinct from admission and residence.
Immigration, Exclusion & Urban Communities
The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 targeted laborer entry and barred Chinese naturalization, while later restrictions widened exclusion.
Immigration, Exclusion, Cities & Political Membership
Questions using naturalization
Problem 1
How do admission, naturalization, and citizenship by birth answer different questions?
Answer and explanation
An admission record concerns entry under particular rules; naturalization concerns acquisition of citizenship; citizenship by birth concerns another basis. The 1882 law’s restrictions did not mean no Chinese person could ever enter under an exception. Analyze categories and enforcement before generalizing about all arrivals.