Celebrating American Independence: Welcoming 11,000 New Citizens
As the United States celebrates Independence Day, government officials are marking the occasion by welcoming approximately 11,000 new citizens to the country this week. This patriotic event underscores the nation’s enduring commitment to freedom, democracy, and the opportunities that have long defined the American experience.
From June 23 to July 5, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) have organized 195 naturalization ceremonies across the country. This is a significant increase from the previous year, where 5,500 new citizens were welcomed during the same week. These ceremonies are a testament to the nation’s openness and the aspirational spirit of those who choose to make America their home.
Before they can become citizens, applicants must pass a rigorous two-part test designed to ensure they have a fundamental understanding of English and knowledge of U.S. civics. The first part of the test assesses their English language skills. In the second part, applicants must correctly answer six out of ten civics questions, which are selected by the examiners from a pool of 100 possible questions that applicants can study beforehand.
These questions cover a range of topics, all integral to the American identity and governance. Here are ten sample questions that challenge both new citizens and long-standing ones alike:
1. What is one reason colonists came to America?
Colonists came to America for various reasons, including the pursuit of freedom, political liberty, religious freedom, economic opportunity, the right to practice their religion, and to escape persecution. Any of these reasons would be a correct answer on the test.
2. Who is the ‘Father of Our Country?’
George Washington is known as the ‘Father of Our Country.’ He was a founding father, the first President of the United States, and served as president of the Constitutional Convention in 1787, which drafted the U.S. Constitution.
3. Name one of the two longest rivers in the United States.
The Missouri River and the Mississippi River are the two longest rivers in the United States, each traveling over 2,300 miles. The Missouri River joins the Mississippi River, which flows from Lake Itasca through the continental U.S. to the Gulf of Mexico.
4. Why does the flag have 13 stripes?
The 13 stripes on the American flag represent the original 13 colonies: New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.
5. Name one branch or part of the government.
The U.S. government is divided into three branches: Congress (legislative), the President (executive), and the courts (judicial). Mentioning any of these branches or parts will be marked correct on the test.
6. Where is the Statue of Liberty?
The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France to the U.S., stands on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. It is visible from various locations in New Jersey and is an enduring symbol of freedom and democracy. Acceptable answers include New York, New York Harbor, Liberty Island, New Jersey, near New York City, and the Hudson River.
7. When is the last day you can send in federal income tax forms?
U.S. citizens must send in federal income tax forms by April 15 during tax season.
8. Name one writer of the Federalist Papers.
The Federalist Papers were written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay to support the Constitution and advocate for a strong federal government. Naming any one of these writers is correct.
9. What is one right or freedom from the First Amendment?
The First Amendment protects five fundamental rights: speech, religion, assembly, press, and petitioning the government. Any of these will be marked correct.
10. What year was the Constitution written?
The Constitution of the United States was written in 1787. Its opening words, “We The People,” affirm the foundational principle that the U.S. government exists to serve its citizens.
This Independence Day, as we welcome new citizens who have shown their commitment to these principles and values, we also celebrate the enduring strength and unity of our nation. The journey to citizenship is a profound and meaningful process, reflecting the hopeful spirit that has always defined America.
