Conclusion

Image from: Library of Congress

Citizenship is one of the most cherished and valued ideals in the United States.  Although an ever evolving concept in many ways, one element always at its heart is individual rights.  Throughout the nation’s history people have not only sought to define what these rights are but always also to recognize them and protect them, thus redefining the notion of a citizen.  What are these rights today? Who living in our country is a citizen and who is not and why not?  Do all citizens have the same protection of rights? Should non-citizens have protection of any rights? These questions and others will continue to challenge all people living in the United States.  Although a daunting and sometimes painful challenge, it’s an important one that helps to ever improve our nation.