Final answer:
The first laws of citizenship and naturalization in the United States were based on race and residency, limiting citizenship to "free white persons". Immigrants were treated differently throughout history, facing challenges and discrimination, including targeted laws like the Chinese Exclusion Act.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first laws of citizenship and naturalization in the United States can be seen in the Naturalization Act of 1790, which stated that only "free white persons" living in the United States for two years could become citizens. This law aimed to limit citizenship to a select group of people based on race and residency. It set a precedent for later laws that targeted immigrants and imposed restrictions based on country of origin and other factors.
As for how immigrants were treated, the treatment varied throughout history. Immigrants during the 19th century faced challenges and discrimination, particularly if they were from countries at war with the United States. For example, the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 allowed the president to deport or imprison immigrants from enemy countries during times of war. Additionally, the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 specifically targeted Chinese immigrants and barred them from immigrating to the United States.
Overall, the treatment of immigrants in the United States has been complex and has evolved over time. While some laws aimed to preserve immigrant cultures, such as the Naturalization Act of 1790, others focused on exclusion and discrimination, particularly towards certain groups of immigrants.