In answer to the question: <<If a male served in the American Revolutionary War was he automatically naturalized or did they usually naturalize before they served? Thank your for volunteering your help. Karen>> From my friend Robert PLOWMAN, Ph.D., (retired from NARA): Helen, The first naturalization act was passed by Congress in 1790. It was to go into effect in 1795 since, like today, you had to wait 5 years to become a citizen. Therefore, anyone who was in the country prior to 1790 was considered a citizen of the United States. Merry Christmas, Bob Happy Holiday's, Helen