Wong Kim Ark's Fight for Birthright Citizenship

The video discusses the 14th Amendment and Wong Kim Ark's pivotal role in affirming US citizenship rights for all individuals born in the US, regardless of race. It highlights the anti-Chinese sentiment of the era, the Chinese Exclusion Act, and Wong's legal battle after being detained upon returning from China. The Supreme Court's 1898 decision confirmed birthright citizenship, marking a significant step in civil rights, though Wong continued to face discrimination. His case set a precedent for citizenship rights across races.

What was the primary purpose of the 14th Amendment as discussed in the video?

• To grant voting rights to all citizens

• To establish birthright citizenship in the US

• To create a federal income tax

• To abolish slavery

Why was Wong Kim Ark detained by a US Customs agent in 1895?

• He did not have a valid passport

• He was believed to be a Chinese citizen due to his race and immigrant parents

• He was accused of espionage

• He was suspected of smuggling goods

What was the US government's argument against Wong Kim Ark's citizenship?

• He had renounced his citizenship by living abroad

• All people of Chinese descent were under the jurisdiction of the Chinese government

• He was not born in the United States

• His parents were not US citizens

What was the outcome of the Supreme Court's decision in Wong Kim Ark's case?

• It overturned the 14th Amendment

• It allowed states to decide citizenship laws

• It confirmed birthright citizenship for all born in the US

• It denied citizenship to children of immigrants

Despite the Supreme Court ruling, what challenges did Wong Kim Ark continue to face?

• He was denied the right to vote

• He was deported to China

• He was forced to carry ID papers to prove his citizenship

• He was unable to find employment