What It Means
Defines citizenship (birthright citizenship), requires states to provide due process and equal protection.
Historical Context
Overruled the Dred Scott decision and extended protections to formerly enslaved people.
Original Text
“All persons born or naturalized in the United States... are citizens... No State shall... deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person... the equal protection of the laws.”
- Amendment Number
- 14 of 27
- Ratified
- 1868
- Category
- Reconstruction