AP US Gov - Amendments

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion (an official religion). AKA The Establishment Clause

1st

Congress shall not prohibit the free exercise of religion. AKA The Free Exercise Clause

1st

Freedom of speech, press, peaceable assembly, and the right to petition the government for redress of grievances.

1st

The right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.

2nd

The people are protected against unreasonable searches and seizures. The government needs a warrant (based on probable cause) to legally search you or your property.

4th

Grand juries (indictments) are required for federal capital crimes (death penalty cases)

5th

You can't be tried for the same crime twice (double jeopardy)

5th

You cannot be compelled in a criminal case to be a witness against yourself. "I plead the ____"

5th

The government cannot take your property (eminent domain) for public use without just compensation. AKA The Takings Clause.

5th

The accused has the right to a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury.

6th

The accused has the right to assistance of counsel for his defense.

6th

No cruel and unusual punishment.

8th

The rights in the Constitution of certain rights shall not be construed to deny others retained by the people.

9th

Powers not delegated to the US by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States.

10th

Changed the way the Electoral College worked. One ballot for president and one ballot for vice president

12th

Slavery is outlawed.

13th

Nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law. AKA Due Process Clause.

14th

"No state...shall deny any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws." AKA The Equal Protection Clause

14th

The right to vote shall not be denied to people based on their race or color

15th

Congress has the power to levy an income tax (the SCOTUS had said this was unconstitutional).

16th

Senators elected by popular vote (previously chosen by state legislators)

17th

Manufacture, sale, and transportation of intoxicating liquor is prohibited.AKA Prohibition.

18th

The right to vote shall not be denied on account of sex

19th

President's term begins on January 20. Congress' term begins on January 3.

20th

Prohibition is repealed

21st

Limits the president to 2 terms (or a maximum of 10 years if they assume the office)

22nd

Washington DC gets 3 electors. "2 give 3 votes to DC"

23rd

No poll taxes (voting tax)

24th

If there is a vacancy in the office of VP, it must be filled (POTUS nominates and both houses of Congress confirm).

25th

Rules for Presidential Disability

25th

18 year olds can vote.

26th

Congress' pay raises don't take effect until after the next election.

27th