Federal Judge Blocks Trump's Birthright Citizenship Order The concept of birthright citizenship has been a cornerstone of American immigration policy since the late 19th century.
The 14th Amendment to the US Constitution, ratified in 1868, declares that all persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to its jurisdiction are citizens of the country.
This provision ensured that former slaves, many of whom were born into bondage, would be considered equal under the law and have the same rights as any other American.