Chinese demands for equal rights forced the Supreme Court to use the Fourteenth Amendment to rule that children of Chinese immigrants were U.S. citizens by birthright.

Fourteenth Amendment

An amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1868, granting citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the United States, including former slaves, and providing all citizens with equal protection under the laws.

Chinese Immigrants

Individuals from China who have relocated to another country, historically significant in the 19th and early 20th centuries for their roles in labor, particularly in the United States during the California Gold Rush and the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad.

U.S. Citizens

Individuals who either are born in the United States or have been naturalized, granting them rights and responsibilities under U.S. law.