The 27 Amendments of the U.S. Constitution, simplified.
1st Amendment
Freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition.
2nd Amendment
Right to bear arms.
3rd Amendment
Prohibition of quartering soldiers in private homes without consent.
4th Amendment
Protection against unreasonable search and seizure.
5th Amendment
Rights related to indictment by a grand jury, double jeopardy, and due process.
6th Amendment
Right to a speedy and public trial, to confront witnesses, and to have counsel.
7th Amendment
Right to a jury trial in civil lawsuits.
8th Amendment
Prohibition of excessive bail and cruel and unusual punishments.
9th Amendment
Recognition that non-enumerated rights belong to the people.
10th Amendment
Rights not delegated to the federal government are reserved to the states.
11th Amendment
States cannot sue another state in federal court.
12th Amendment
Establishes the procedure for electing the President and Vice President.
13th Amendment
Abolishment of slavery and involuntary servitude.
14th Amendment
Grants citizenship to all born in the U.S. and includes the equal protection clause.
15th Amendment
Prohibits discrimination in voting based on race, color, or previous condition of servitude.
16th Amendment
Allows Congress to levy an income tax.
17th Amendment
Senators are elected by the people rather than appointed by state legislatures.
18th Amendment
Establishes prohibition of alcohol.
19th Amendment
Grants women the right to vote.
20th Amendment
Sets January 20 as Inauguration Day for the President.
21st Amendment
Repeals the 18th Amendment (prohibition).
22nd Amendment
Limits the President to two terms in office.
23rd Amendment
Grants electoral votes to Washington D.C.
24th Amendment
Prohibits poll taxes in federal elections.
25th Amendment
Establishes presidential succession and procedures for filling a vacancy.
26th Amendment
Lowers the voting age to 18.
27th Amendment
Congressional salary increases take effect only after the next election.