We have in times past given some very definite ex pression in respect of questions involved in the field which this bill covers. In 1868 the Congress of the United States formulated a doctrine which is very decidedly contrary to the one which we find embodied in this bill. In the Fortieth Congress an act was passed. from which I read the following: Whereas the right of expatriation is a natural and inherent right of all people. indispensable to the enjoyment of the rights of life. liberty. and the pursuit of happiness. and whereas in the recognition of this principle this Government has freely received emigrants from all nations. and invested them with the rights of citizenship. and whereas it is claimed that such American citizens. with their descendants. are subjects of foreign states. owing allegiance to the governments thereof. and whereas it is necessary to the maintenance of public peace that this claim of foreign allegiance should be promptly and finally disavowed: Therefore. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled. That any declaration. instruction. opinion. order. or decision of any officers of this Government which deniesrestricts.
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emigrants