Alien and Sedition Acts

Definition

The Alien and Sedition Acts were four laws passed by the Federalist-dominated Congress in 1798 during a time of intense political partisanship. These acts increased the residency requirement for American citizenship, allowed the president to imprison or deport aliens considered "dangerous to the peace and safety of the United States" and restricted speech critical of the government.

Related terms

Naturalization Act: This was one component of the Alien and Sedition Acts which extended the duration immigrants had to live in the U.S. before becoming citizens from 5 years to 14 years.

Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions: These were political statements drafted where states took a stand against federal overreach, specifically against the Alien & Sedition Acts.

First Amendment: Part of Bill of Rights that guarantees freedoms concerning religion, expression, assembly, and right to petition. It forbids Congress from both promoting one religion over others as well as restricting an individual’s religious practices. It guarantees freedom of expression by prohibiting Congress from restricting press or rights of individuals to speak freely.