27 United States Amendments

Memorize (12 questions)

1st Amendment

Protects the freedoms of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition (RASPP) so people can express ideas and criticize the government.

2nd Amendment

Protects the right of people to own and carry weapons for self

3rd Amendment

Stops the government from forcing people to house soldiers in their homes during peacetime without permission.

4th Amendment

Protects people from unreasonable searches and seizures, requiring warrants based on probable cause.

5th Amendment

Protects citizens in criminal cases, including no self

6th Amendment

Guarantees that anyone accused of a crime has the right to a speedy and public trial, an impartial jury, a lawyer, and to confront witnesses.

7th Amendment

Ensures the right to a jury trial in civil cases involving more than $20 and limits courts from overturning jury decisions.

8th Amendment

Prohibits excessive bail, excessive fines, and cruel or unusual punishment.

9th Amendment

Clarifies that people have other rights even if they are not specifically listed in the Constitution.

10th Amendment

Says powers not given to the federal government are reserved for the states or the people.

11th Amendment

Prevents citizens of one state or country from suing another state in federal court.

12th Amendment

Changes the presidential election process so President and Vice President are voted on separately, reducing ties and confusion.

13th Amendment

Abolishes slavery and involuntary servitude, except as punishment for a crime.

14th Amendment

Defines citizenship, guarantees due process, and equal protection under the law, ensuring states cannot deny these rights.

15th Amendment

Prohibits denying the right to vote based on race, color, or previous servitude.

16th Amendment

Allows Congress to collect income taxes from any source without apportionment among states.

17th Amendment

Allows the direct election of U.S. Senators by the people instead of state legislatures.

18th Amendment

Bans the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages (Prohibition).

19th Amendment

Gives women the right to vote in all elections.

20th Amendment

Moves the start dates of the President and Congress to reduce the "lame duck" period.

21st Amendment

Repeals the 18th Amendment, ending Prohibition, but allows states to regulate alcohol.

22nd Amendment

Limits the President to two elected terms in office.

23rd Amendment

Gives Washington, D.C. electoral votes in presidential elections, equal to the least populous state.

24th Amendment

Bans poll taxes in federal elections to ensure voting is not restricted by fees.

25th Amendment

Explains presidential succession and how a Vice President fills a vacancy or acts as President if the President is unable to serve.

26th Amendment

Lowers the voting age to 18, allowing younger citizens to vote.

27th Amendment

Congress cannot give itself a pay raise until after the next election of Representatives.