The Real Story Behind Birthright Citizenship in the U.S.
Birthright citizenship has been one of the most debated topics in U.S. immigration law. As someone who has studied immigration policy for years, I’ve seen how this principle has shaped American identity and legal rights. The 14th Amendment guarantees that anyone born on U.S. soil is automatically granted citizenship, a policy that has stood for over 150 years. But in recent years, political leaders have questioned whether this should continue. Some believe it encourages unauthorized immigration, while others see it as a fundamental right. Understanding how birthright citizenship came to be, how it has been legally upheld, and what might happen if it were changed is essential in today’s immigration debate. The 14th Amendment and the Foundation of Birthright Citizenship The legal basis for birthright citizenship comes from the 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868. It was written to correct injustices from the Dred Scott v. Sandford ruling, which had denied citizenship to African Americans. ...