what does the 14th amendment says
The 14th Amendment of the United States Constitution, ratified in 1868, contains several clauses that address different aspects of citizenship, due process, equal protection, and the rights of former slaves. Here is a summary of the main provisions:
- Citizenship Clause: The first section of the 14th Amendment states that all persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to its jurisdiction, are citizens of the United States and of the state they reside in.
- Due Process Clause: The second section includes the Due Process Clause, which prohibits the states from denying any person life, liberty, or property without due process of law. This clause ensures that individuals have the right to fair and legal proceedings before deprivation of their rights.
- Equal Protection Clause: The Equal Protection Clause is also found in the second section. It prohibits states from denying any person within their jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws. This clause ensures that all individuals are treated equally under the law without discrimination.
- Privileges and Immunities Clause: The fourth section includes the Privileges and Immunities Clause, which prohibits states from making laws that abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States. This clause aims to protect the basic rights and freedoms of citizens.
These clauses have been interpreted and expanded by court rulings and have played a critical role in shaping civil rights, equal protection, and due process jurisprudence in the United States.