Which amendment protects against cruel and unusual punishment?

The Eighth Amendment is the one that protects against cruel and unusual punishment. This amendment was adopted as part of the Bill of Rights in 1791 and plays a critical role in the American justice system by ensuring that punishments for crimes are not excessively harsh or barbaric. It establishes a standard that helps to prevent inhumane treatment and promotes the principle of proportionality in sentencing, ensuring that the punishment fits the crime.

The language of the Eighth Amendment has been interpreted by the Supreme Court to mean that punishments cannot be grossly disproportionate to the severity of the offense or inflict unnecessary suffering. This protection extends not only to the length of prison sentences but also to the conditions of confinement and the methods used in carrying out punishments, such as the death penalty.

In contrast, the other amendments listed serve different functions. The Sixth Amendment guarantees the rights related to criminal prosecutions, such as the right to a fair trial. The Seventh Amendment addresses the right to a jury trial in civil cases, while the Ninth Amendment highlights that the enumeration of certain rights in the Constitution does not deny or disparage other rights retained by the people. Therefore, the Eighth Amendment is specifically focused on the prohibition of cruel and unusual punishment, making it the