What were the Alien and Sedition Acts?

The Alien and Sedition Acts were four acts passed by John Adams and the Federalist-controlled Congress in 1798, which restricted immigration and free speech in the United States. They included the Naturalization Act, Alien Friends Act, Alien Enemies Act, and Sedition Act.

Who passed the Alien and Sedition Acts?

The Alien and Sedition Acts were passed by the Federalist-controlled US Congress and were signed by President John Adams.

Which of the Alien and Sedition Acts remains in effect?

Of the four Alien and Sedition Acts, only one - the Alien Enemies Act - remains in effect. This act allows the US president to detain or deport non-citizens who come from a country with which the US is actively at war.

Alien and Sedition Acts Timeline

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Definition

The Alien and Sedition Acts were four laws passed by President John Adams and the Federalist-controlled Congress in 1798 that restricted immigration and free speech in the United States. Framed by the Federalist Party as a necessary measure to protect national security during the Quasi-War (1798-1800), the acts were deeply controversial and were challenged as being unconstitutional.

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