Your TR Source
Theodore Roosevelt’s secretary explains that Roosevelt cannot help W. S. Boyd with his naturalization application due to the stringent law. It is unlikely that the law will be amended soon; if it is, it will be even stricter.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1911-11-11
Theodore Roosevelt thanks Edwin Borchard for his letter. Roosevelt does not believe that a foreign power can impose dual citizenship on American citizens by its own legislation. He acknowledges that it can be done for the sons of a Frenchman, Germans, or Englishman, and for their grand-sons and great-grandsons as well. Roosevelt believes it comes down to a nation’s attitude, rather than international law, when determining such questions.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1915-08-20
President Roosevelt tells Hawaii Governor Carter that the enclosed letter from Attorney General William H. Moody explains himself. Roosevelt is very anxious for the Japanese “to be treated exactly like the Europeans” and asks if Carter can take steps to rescind the law in question.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1905-09-06
President Roosevelt would like to have the report before Congress is in session. Roosevelt asks Eugene Philbin to communicate with Emil von Schleinitz, who has facts on the Ellis Island matter. Schleinitz is naturally favorable to German immigration and President Roosevelt wants to “leave the door open” to people who will make good citizens no matter their race or creed. However, Roosevelt also favors excluding immigrants who are “physically, mentally, or morally unfit to be a good citizen.”
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1903-10-01
Secretary of State Hay is sorry that Congress has done its work so well that not even Confucius could become an American.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1904-03
The law, originally approved by Congress on May 6, 1882, forbids the naturalization of people of Chinese descent. The courts have ruled that this includes marrying a citizen. Thus, a Chinese wife could not receive citizenship by marrying an American citizen. Therefore, Dr. Yamei Kin cannot receive a passport or be protected by American officers abroad.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1904-03-02