Which constitutional amendment addresses "Cruel and Unusual Punishment"?

Study for the ABCTE United States History Exam with our comprehensive guide. Access detailed questions, hints, and explanations to boost your exam readiness. Start preparing today!

The Eighth Amendment is the constitutional amendment that specifically addresses "Cruel and Unusual Punishment." Ratified in 1791 as part of the Bill of Rights, this amendment is significant as it seeks to limit the powers of the government concerning the treatment of individuals within the criminal justice system. It prohibits excessive bail, excessive fines, and cruel and unusual punishments, thus establishing a legal standard aimed at protecting individuals from inhumane treatment by the state.

The principle behind the Eighth Amendment reflects a growing recognition during the founding period of the United States that certain forms of punishment, such as torture or barbaric practices, are morally and ethically unacceptable. This amendment has been the basis for many landmark Supreme Court cases that have interpreted what constitutes "cruel and unusual" in the context of evolving social norms and legal standards.

The other amendments mentioned—such as the Sixth, Fourth, and Fifth—address different rights, such as the rights to a fair trial, protection against unreasonable searches, and protections against self-incrimination, respectively. Each has a distinct purpose and does not specifically pertain to the treatment of individuals under punishment, making the Eighth Amendment the correct answer for this question.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy