Why Does the U.S. Have Birthright Citizenship? | United States v. Wong Kim Ark

The video discusses the case of Wong Kim Arc, born in San Francisco to Chinese immigrants, and his struggle for US citizenship. Despite being born in the US, Wong faced reentry denial due to his parents' nationality. The case reached the Supreme Court, which ruled in favor of Wong, affirming that anyone born in the US is a citizen, barring specific exceptions. This decision reinforced the 14th Amendment's citizenship clause, impacting millions. Wong's life remained challenging, facing constant scrutiny when traveling. His case remains pivotal in US citizenship law.

What was the main reason Wong Kim Ark's parents could not become U.S. citizens?

• They did not apply for citizenship.

• They were not considered 'white' under the Naturalization Law of 1802.

• They were not born in the United States.

• They were diplomats from China.

What was the key legal question in Wong Kim Ark's case?

• Whether Wong Kim Ark was born on a public ship.

• Whether Wong Kim Ark's parents were spies.

• Whether Wong Kim Ark was a diplomat.

• Whether the 14th Amendment's citizenship clause applied to children of non-citizens.

What was the Supreme Court's decision regarding Wong Kim Ark's citizenship?

• He was not a citizen because he was born on a public ship.

• He was not a citizen because his parents were not citizens.

• He was a citizen because he was born in the United States.

• He was a citizen because his parents were diplomats.

What was one of the main arguments of the dissenting justices in Wong Kim Ark's case?

• The 14th Amendment did not apply to children of non-citizens.

• Wong Kim Ark was born on a public ship.

• Wong Kim Ark's parents were spies.

• Wong Kim Ark was a foreign diplomat.

What challenges did Wong Kim Ark face after the Supreme Court decision?

• He was never allowed to return to the United States.

• His entire family was denied entry to the United States.

• He was granted full citizenship benefits without any issues.

• He had to provide extra documentation every time he returned from China.