Immigration and the path to citizenship have profoundly impacted the history and character of the United States. In this educational Colorful History comic, explore the issue and learn more about what it takes to become a U.S. citizen.

For many immigrants to the United States, the process of becoming a U.S. citizen “the right way” is not as simple as many would believe. Those seeking a better life in the U.S. and the benefits of citizenship often face an uphill battle involving residency requirements, tests, confusing qualifications, and steep fees. For people who have had U.S. citizenship since birth, it can be surprising to learn how difficult and time-consuming the citizenship process truly is.

Immigration & Citizenship follows Peter, a U.S. citizen by birth, who is surprised to find out that his neighbor Pedro – whom he has known and lived next to for years – is still seeking U.S. citizenship. Through their conversations, this comic gives a brief history of citizenship for different peoples in the United States, demystifies the process of obtaining citizenship, and explains the obstacles that stand in the way for many immigrants wishing to become U.S. citizens.

Estimated Lexile Level: 610 – 800

Projects and discussion questions aligned to Common Core standards for grades 6-8.

Story and Art by Will Whitaker
Letting by R. Alan Brooks