Which two constitutional amendments protect people from unfair government actions, and which level of government does each one limit (federal vs. state and local)?
The 5th Amendment protects against unfair actions by the federal (national) government through its Due Process Clause. The 14th Amendment protects against unfair actions by state and local governments through its Due Process Clause (and Equal Protection Clause). So, match 5th Amendment → Federal government; 14th Amendment → State and local government.
What this question is really asking
You are matching each amendment to the level of government it restricts. The key clue is that both amendments contain a "due process" protection, but they apply to different parts of government.
The 5th Amendment: limits the federal government
The 5th Amendment says the federal government cannot take away a person’s "life, liberty, or property" without due process of law.
That is why it matches:
- 5th Amendment $\rightarrow$ Federal (national) government
The 14th Amendment: limits state and local governments
After the Civil War, the 14th Amendment was added and it says that states cannot deprive any person of "life, liberty, or property" without due process of law, and it also requires equal protection.
That is why it matches:
- 14th Amendment $\rightarrow$ State and local government
Quick check
If the unfair action is done by the U. S. government, think 5th. If it is done by a state, county, city, or public school, think 14th.
Comments (0)
Please to leave a comment.