Which amendment clarifies that the rights of individuals are not limited to those explicitly listed in the Constitution?

Explore the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights Test. Prepare with comprehensive questions and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

The Ninth Amendment is the correct choice because it explicitly states that the enumeration of certain rights in the Constitution should not be construed to deny or disparage others that are retained by the people. This emphasizes that individuals possess rights beyond those that are specifically mentioned in the Constitution. The framers included this amendment to ensure that the listing of specific rights would not lead to the assumption that individuals have no other rights—thereby affirming a broader interpretation of personal liberties.

In contrast, the Eighth Amendment deals primarily with protection against excessive bail, fines, and cruel and unusual punishment, while the Tenth Amendment focuses on the powers not delegated to the federal government, being reserved for the states or the people. The Sixth Amendment addresses the rights related to criminal prosecutions, such as the right to a speedy trial and an impartial jury, but does not reference broader individual rights. Thus, the Ninth Amendment uniquely encapsulates the concept that rights extend beyond those that are explicitly defined in the Constitution.

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