The US Supreme Court on Thursday (May 15) will hear arguments over the legality of an executive order issued by President Donald Trump that seeks to end birthright citizenship for children born in the United States to undocumented immigrants and temporary visa holders. The outcome of the case could determine the future course of American citizenship law. WHAT IS BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP? According to the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.” Story continues below this ad Additionally, the Citizenship Clause, ratified in 1868 after the American Civil War, aimed to ensure that formerly enslaved people would be citizens. Until 1924, sovereign Native American tribes were exempt from the law. The provision has been widely interpreted to make citizens of anyone born on American soil, except for: The children of diplomats who have allegiance to another government. Enemies present in the US during hostile occupation. The concept itself is centuries …