<Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This section provides insufficient context for those unfamiliar with the subject . Please help improve the article with a good introductory style . (November 2012) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> </Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This section provides insufficient context for those unfamiliar with the subject . Please help improve the article with a good introductory style . (November 2012) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> <P> Since the transfer of sovereignty of Puerto Rico from Spain to the United States, the relationship between Puerto Rico and the US has been evolving . On April 11, 1899, the peace treaty between Spain and the USA (Treaty of Paris) became effective, and established a military government in Puerto Rico . This was short lived, since the following year (April 2, 1900) Congress enacted the Foraker Act, which established a civil government and free trade between Puerto Rico and the USA . Puerto Ricans, although uncapable of electing members of the territory's executive branch, but were now able to elect their local representatives and a resident commissioner to the US Congress, who had voice but no vote . In 1917, the enactment of the Jones - Shafroth Act the territory of Puerto Rico was organized and statutory US citizenship was granted to its residents . </P> <P> Since 1967, there have been several referenda which include questions on statehood . Puerto Ricans chose not to alter the status quo in referenda until 2012 . The 2012 referendum produced a more equivocal result . </P>

Steps for puerto rico to become a state