The British Nationality Act 1948 was a significant piece of legislation that established the concept of British citizenship. It allowed individuals from the former British Empire, including countries like India and Jamaica, to become British citizens. This act aimed to unify the various nationalities within the empire under a single citizenship framework, promoting a sense of belonging and identity. Under this act, people from Commonwealth nations could live and work in the United Kingdom without needing special permission. However, it also marked the beginning of changes in immigration policies, leading to later legislation that would restrict entry and residency for non-British citizens.