Foraker Act
After the Spanish-American War, the
United States gained six new territories. One of which was Puerto Rico. A question on how to govern Puerto Rico was discussed by Congress and the
President. In 1900 they passed the
Foraker Act that established a civil government for the island. The act called
for a governor and an executive council, both of which would be appointed by
the President. The Supreme Court ruled that Puerto Ricans were not American
citizens and did not have constitutional rights.
Gradually Puerto Rico gained
control over themselves and more freedom from the States, in 1917 they were
granted American Citizenship. In 1947 they were allowed to elect their own
officials. Around that time and on through to today there has been debate on
whether to make Puerto Rico, a state, keep it as it is, or give them
independence.
No comments:
Post a Comment