Naturalization Language "next preceding"

AmyDVHemsleySunshine

Can anyone tell me whatthe phrase "next preceding" means in respect to a US naturalization? I'm trying to lock down a timeline yet the language is almost foreign to this native English speaker... "Naturalized April 9, 1879: ...having then declared his intention to become a citizen of the US and proved his residence within thw US for the 3 years next-preceding his arrival at.the age of 21 years." Does anyone have a lick of an idea what that means? Very lost.... Maybe I should have read more Jane Austen...... Amy

Áine Ní Donnghaile

Hi @AmyDVHemsleySunshine

The wording is a mix of legalese and bureaucratic terminology. Typical for a government document.

Essentially, it means the 3 years immediately preceding. He had to prove that he had resided in the USA for those 3 years.

CHold

@AmyDVHemsleySunshine

Your question will be forwarded to a Search team for review and assistance. You may be contacted by that team if they need more information. They may be able to help you.