Which of the following amendments prohibits cruel and unusual punishment?

The 8th Amendment prohibits cruel and unusual punishment, reflecting a fundamental principle of justice in the United States legal system. This amendment protects individuals from excessive penalties and ensures that punishments are proportionate to the crimes committed. It emerged from the English legal tradition, where abuses like torture or inhumane treatment were recognized as violations of basic human rights.

The inclusion of this amendment in the Bill of Rights underscores the importance of humane treatment under the law and has played a critical role in shaping the evolution of criminal justice practices over the years. It has been the basis for landmark Supreme Court rulings that have deemed certain forms of punishment, such as prolonged solitary confinement or the death penalty under certain circumstances, as unconstitutional.

The other amendments listed focus on different rights and protections: the 4th Amendment deals with unlawful search and seizure, the 6th Amendment ensures the right to a fair trial, and the 10th Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states or the people. Each of these amendments addresses distinct legal protections and issues, making the focus on punishment unique to the 8th Amendment.