Understanding the Distinction Between a Citizen and a Natural-Born Citizen in the United States

The terms 'citizen' and 'natural-born citizen' hold significant importance in the United States, particularly in relation to certain political offices. This article explores the nuanced differences between these terms, their historical context, and how they have evolved over time.

Historical Context and Definitions

The term ‘natural-born’ is a term of art that has its roots in the colonial era, specifically in the law of England. It refers to a person who is a citizen ‘subject’ at the moment of birth, independent of how or where they were born. This concept has been carried into other former English colonies, including the United States.

Despite common misconceptions, being a 'natural-born citizen' does not solely mean being born within the borders of the United States. Rather, it can also occur through descent from a U.S. citizen who lived in the country for more than five years before reaching the age of majority. Conversely, those who obtain citizenship through the naturalization process are not considered 'natural-born citizens' by definition.

Examples and Clarifications

A classic example involves Senator Ted Cruz, who was born in Alberta, Canada, to a Cuban father. His mother, however, was a U.S. citizen. This example demonstrates that being a 'natural-born citizen' is not solely determined by birthplace, but also by the citizenship status of the parents.

Moreover, the Supreme Court has never ruled on the term 'natural-born citizen,' but it is generally interpreted to mean 'a citizen at birth.' This means that anyone who has gone through the naturalization process after birth is not considered a 'natural-born citizen.'

Educational and Constitutional Implications

The educational and constitutional implications of these terms are profound. Understanding the historical context and the framers' intent helps clarify their meanings. During the Constitutional Convention, the term 'citizen' was used to refer to a person belonging to the United States, as opposed to the citizens of the individual states.

Consider the Philadelphia Convention of 1787, where the founders deliberated on establishing a new nation. At that time, the literacy rate was relatively low, with only about 60% of the population being literate. However, the elite and educated would have been well-versed in the term 'natural-born citizen,' as evidenced by the numerous legal and political texts they had access to, such as the Federalist Papers, Vattel's Treatise, and various local discourse.

Current Interpretations and Legitimacy

Today, the terms 'citizen' and 'natural-born citizen' are sometimes misinterpreted. While there is a prevalent belief that being born in the United States is the sole criterion for being a 'natural-born citizen,' this is not entirely accurate. The underlying logic of the framers, as well as the current interpretation of the term, emphasizes the importance of both parents being U.S. citizens at the time of the child's birth.

This distinction is crucial for understanding eligibility for certain federal offices, especially the presidency. The U.S. Constitution stipulates that only a 'natural-born citizen' can serve as President, reflecting the intent of the framers to prevent foreign influence in the highest levels of government.

Thus, the difference between a 'citizen' and a 'natural-born citizen' goes beyond mere semantics. It reflects a careful balance between individual rights and the national interest, ensuring that the office of the President is occupied by someone deeply rooted in the nation's democratic tradition.

Key Takeaways:

A 'natural-born citizen' means a child born with both parents being citizens of the United States of America. A 'citizen' means someone who holds U.S. citizenship, which can occur at birth or through naturalization. The terms are significant in the context of certain federal offices, particularly the presidency.

By understanding these distinctions, we can better appreciate the historical and constitutional significance of these terms in the United States.