Eighth Amendment

Excessive Fines, Cruel and Unusual Punishment

Passed by Congress September 25, 1789. Ratified December 15, 1791. The first 10 amendments form the Bill of Rights

Text of the Amendment

Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.

Interpretations & Debate

Read scholarly interpretations of the Eighth Amendment from the National Constitution Center, where constitutional scholars across the political spectrum debate its meaning and application.

Source

Adapted from the National Constitution Center, which provides the canonical text and scholarly interpretations of the Eighth Amendment.