Citizenship, American citizenship, is hard to obtain as it involves a lengthy process, but it carries with it certain rights and obligations. The two ways by which an individual can gain American citizenship is either by birth in the country or through the process of naturalization. American citizenship allows you to enjoy all of the rights entitled to those who are residents within the country such as voting, holding a public office, and enjoying all of the benefits of a democracy. There are also certain obligations that come along with being an American citizen such as paying taxes, following the laws, and serving jury duty if selected. As there are many people who wish to ultimately end up as an American citizen, there are not only strict stipulations that must be followed including passing a test on the various information on the country as a whole.