I am not an authority on the Oath of Allegiance. My study of Rev. War and Maryland history indicates that the oath was required by the individual states in about 1778 due to a strong lingering Tory influence and insurgency. In Maryland, and I think some other States as well, those who refused to sign the Oath could have their property confiscated. The State government's were Patriot at that time. It was similar to inducements to enroll in the various State militia's. This is why nearly all men of military age, and fit to serve, did enroll in the militia. Actually serving when called on active duty was another matter altogether, and many did not serve. The USA encouraged open immigration with few restrictions for many years. Such restrictions as existed were due mostly to State laws and enforcement. The early Federal Alien and Sedition laws were aimed at deportation of disloyal individuals some of whom were alleged to be foreign agents. Don Fehlings Renton, Washington, USA Tel: 425/255-8588 Dfehlings@aol.com