[DoodleDawg]

Essentially, people who were in the USA illegally were not considered under the jurisdiction the USA, they were considered under the jurisdiction of their native country and, if caught in the USA illegally, would be deported therefrom to the country of their proper jurisdiction.

In 1868 how did you determine if someone was in the country legally or illegally?

[okie01]

In 1868 how did you determine if someone was in the country legally or illegally?

My wife is a geneaologist. Birth certificates, marriage licenses, election registrations, death certificates and other means of identification were regularly issued from Day One.

The originals were usually maintained at the county court house, but handwritten copies were provided to the individuals for signature (usually achieved with a "mark", as many folks didn't now how to write).

I believe we have Benjamin Franklin to thank for this procedure. He was the first county clerk.