What did the alien act prohibit?

The Alien Act, part of the Alien and Sedition Acts of 1798, prohibited foreign nationals from becoming U.S. citizens and allowed the government to deport any non-citizen deemed dangerous or a threat to national security. It aimed to limit the influence of immigrants, particularly those from countries perceived as hostile, amidst fears of subversion and unrest during a time of political tension. The act reflected the broader concerns of the Federalist Party about national security and political loyalty.