Which of the following parts of the First Amendment is most closely associated with the phrase “separation of church and state”?(1 point) Responses the freedom of speech the freedom of speech the freedom of the press the freedom of the press the establishment clause the establishment clause the free exercise clause
The part of the First Amendment that is most closely associated with the phrase "separation of church and state" is the Establishment Clause. To determine the correct answer, it is important to have a basic understanding of the First Amendment and its different clauses.
The First Amendment to the United States Constitution states: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
Among the various freedoms protected by the First Amendment, the Establishment Clause specifically prohibits the government from establishing an official state religion or showing preference for one religion over others. The phrase "separation of church and state" is often used to describe this concept of keeping religion separate from the government.
Therefore, the correct answer is "the establishment clause."