
Carol Nackenoff
Richter Professor Emerita at Swarthmore College and co-author of "American by Birth," providing historical context and analysis of the Wong Kim Ark case.
Best podcasts with Carol Nackenoff
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Jun 9, 2022 • 59min
By Accident of Birth
Julie Su, an attorney and fourth-generation San Franciscan, and Carol Nackenoff, a Richter Professor Emerita, dive deep into the compelling story of Wong Kim Ark. They discuss his tumultuous return from China in 1895, where he was unjustly denied entry despite being born in the U.S. The conversation reveals the historical struggle against the Chinese Exclusion Act and the pivotal Supreme Court case that followed. Together, they reflect on the ongoing debates surrounding birthright citizenship and the profound implications for American identity and civil rights.

Jul 20, 2025 • 1h 20min
Carol Nackenoff and Julie Novkov, "American by Birth: Wong Kim Ark and the Battle for Citizenship" (UP of Kansas, 2021)
Carol Nackenoff and Julie Novkov dive into the life of Wong Kim Ark, whose Supreme Court case set the precedent for birthright citizenship in the U.S. They explore the historical context of citizenship laws, particularly in relation to race and gender disparities. The duo discusses the challenges faced by Chinese immigrants in the 19th century, illustrating their legal struggles and societal discrimination. Finally, they connect Wong's legacy to contemporary debates around citizenship, revealing the ongoing vulnerabilities faced by marginalized groups today.