What were the Alien Acts, passed in 1798, primarily concerned with?

The Alien Acts, passed in 1798, were primarily focused on raising residency requirements for citizenship, which is why this answer is correct. Specifically, the laws increased the period of residency required before an immigrant could become a citizen from five to fourteen years. This change reflected the Federalist Party's concern about the influence of immigrants, particularly those from countries that were seen as hostile. By extending the residency requirement, the government aimed to limit naturalization and, consequently, the political power of immigrants who might align with the opposing Democratic-Republican Party.

The context of this legislation was a time of significant tension between the United States and France, which heightened fears about foreign influence within the country. While issues such as taxation on immigrants and foreign espionage were relevant during this period, the primary focus of the Alien Acts was clearly on adjusting the path to citizenship, emphasizing the government's shift in approach toward immigrants and their potential role in American politics.