BIO

Hello, my name is Ashby Culpepper and I am a freshman here at Florida State University majoring in biochemistry on a pre-dental track. I am from Tallahassee, Florida, and I love to play sports, spend time in the outdoors, and have a striking interest in history. My goal is to graduate from FSU and have the opportunity to go to dental school to pursue a career in dentistry back here in my hometown of Tallahassee.

Two Paths to Citizenship: Achille Murat & Joseph M. Hernández

Abstract

In the early 19th century, those people seeking naturalization in the United States faced varied experiences and processes, as exemplified by the paths of Achille Murat and Joseph M. Hernández. Murat embarked on a five-year naturalization process, adhering to the Naturalization Law of 1802. He applied for citizenship in 1823, eventually becoming a citizen of the U.S. in Quincy, Florida, in 1828 after relinquishing his European titles. Murat's journey to citizenship underscored the formal and lengthy nature of the naturalization process, highlighting the requirement for immigrants to meet residency and other criteria before being granted citizenship. In contrast, Hernández, born in Spanish-controlled St. Augustine, quickly obtained U.S. citizenship after Florida was ceded to the United States in 1821. His decision to remain in Florida, coupled with a change to a more “American” name (Joseph), likely facilitated his assimilation and acceptance within the American community, leading to his election as Florida’s first Delegate to the United States House of Representatives in 1822. Hernández’s swift naturalization and subsequent political career illustrate how the political circumstances of the time could impact one’s path to citizenship, showcasing the diverse experiences of those seeking to become U.S. citizens during this era.

Keywords: Citizenship, Achille Murat, Joseph M. Hernández