This podcast episode explores the history of birthright citizenship in the United States, focusing on the landmark Supreme Court case *United States v. Wong Kim Ark* (1898). The episode uses the case to examine the 14th Amendment's citizenship clause and its implications for immigrants, particularly Chinese immigrants during a period of intense anti-Chinese sentiment. The narrative follows Wong Kim Ark's legal battle, highlighting the role of the Chinese Six Companies and the lawyers who defended him against the government's attempts to expand the Chinese Exclusion Act. The Supreme Court ultimately ruled in favor of Wong Kim Ark, establishing birthright citizenship based on place of birth rather than parentage. The episode concludes by noting that despite this victory, Wong Kim Ark still faced discrimination and challenges later in life.
