Which Amendment ensures state governments do not discriminate when applying laws to individuals or groups?

The 14th Amendment is a crucial aspect of the U.S. Constitution that establishes the principle of equal protection under the law. This amendment explicitly prohibits states from denying any person within their jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws. It was adopted in 1868, primarily to ensure that newly freed slaves were afforded the same legal rights as other citizens.

The Equal Protection Clause, a key component of the 14th Amendment, mandates that individuals in similar situations be treated equally, thus preventing discriminatory practices by state governments. This legal foundation has been used in numerous landmark Supreme Court cases to address issues related to discrimination based on race, gender, and other classifications.

In contrast, the 1st Amendment protects freedoms concerning religion, expression, assembly, and the right to petition, but it does not specifically address discrimination in the application of laws. The 4th Amendment deals with unlawful searches and seizures rather than issues of discrimination, and the 8th Amendment focuses on prohibiting cruel and unusual punishment. Hence, the 14th Amendment stands out as the primary legal safeguard against state discrimination.