U.S. Citizenship Civics TestSystem of GovernmentHard
A civics test applicant is asked which amendment defines citizenship and guarantees equal protection under the law. Which amendment is this?
- AThe First Amendment
- BThe Fourteenth Amendment
- CThe Tenth Amendment
- DThe Nineteenth Amendment
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The Fourteenth Amendment
The Fourteenth Amendment defines U.S. citizenship, prohibits states from denying any person 'life, liberty, or property, without due process of law,' and guarantees 'equal protection of the laws' to all citizens.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The First Amendment protects freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition.
- C. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states or the people.
- D. The Nineteenth Amendment grants women the right to vote.
Fourteenth Amendment
An amendment that granted citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the U.S., including formerly enslaved people, and guarantees equal protection and due process under the law.
- Ratified in 1868
- Defines U.S. citizenship (Jus Soli)
- Includes Equal Protection Clause
- Includes Due Process Clause
Memory trick: The 'Fourteenth' covers 'Fairness' for all citizens.