EBR/SS The New Republic

Question

Source 1

George Washington states in his farewell address the following:

"The great rule of conduct for us in regard to foreign nations is in extending our commercial relations, to have with them as little political connection as possible, So far as we have already formed engagements, let them be fulfilled with perfect good faith. Here let us stop."

Source 2

An Act Concerning Aliens

SECTION 1. Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That it shall be lawful for the President of the United States at any time during the continuance of this act, to order all such aliens as he shall judge dangerous to the peace and safety of the United States, or shall have reasonable grounds to suspect are concerned in any treasonable or secret machinations against the government thereof, to depart out of the territory of the United Slates, within such time as shall be expressed in such order, which order shall be served on such alien by delivering him a copy thereof, or leaving the same at his usual abode, and returned to the office of the Secretary of State, by the marshal or other person to whom the same shall be directed.

Source 3

Excerpt from "An Act to Prohibit the Importation of Slaves," signed by Thomas Jefferson in 1807.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,That from and after the first day of January, one thousand eight hundred and eight, it shall not be lawful to import or bring into the United States or the territories thereof from any foreign kingdom, place, or country, any negro, mulatto, or person of colour, with intent to hold, sell, or dispose of such negro, mulatto, or person of colour, as a slave, or to be held to service or labour.



Multiple Choice Question

Using Source 2 which of the following best summarizes John Adams' support for the Alien Act?

A.
Adams believed European immigrants were more patriotic than U.S. citizens.
B.
Adams believed European immigrants created too much job competition for U.S. citizens.
C.
Adams believed European immigrants could replace slave labor in agricultural states.
D.
Adams believed European immigrants had more loyalty to their home countries than to the U.S.

Answer 1

The best answer is:

D. Adams believed European immigrants had more loyalty to their home countries than to the U.S.

This choice aligns with the context of the Alien Act, which was enacted with concerns over national security and the potential threat that immigrants might pose to the stability and loyalty of the newly formed United States. It reflects a sentiment that immigrants could have divided loyalties, which is a key reason for the act's provisions allowing for the removal of perceived dangerous individuals.