Utah Special Function Officer (SFO) Practice Exam

Which amendment declares that all persons born in the U.S. are citizens?

1. 2nd Amendment

2. 5th Amendment

3. 10th Amendment

4. 14th Amendment

The correct answer is: 14th Amendment

The 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution specifically states that all persons born or naturalized in the United States are citizens. This amendment was ratified in 1868 and was a significant part of the Reconstruction amendments aimed at establishing civil rights for former slaves following the Civil War. The language in the amendment clarifies that citizenship is not dependent on race, and it also provides equal protection under the law for all citizens. This has had lasting implications for civil rights and equality in the U.S., ensuring that those born in the country are afforded the same rights and protections as any other citizen, contributing to a more inclusive definition of citizenship. The other amendments listed do not address citizenship in this fundamental way. For example, the 2nd Amendment deals with the right to bear arms, the 5th Amendment addresses rights related to legal proceedings and due process, and the 10th Amendment reaffirms the powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved for the states. Thus, the 14th Amendment is the key constitutional provision that defines citizenship based on birth in the United States.