> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://america-250.mintlify.site/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Eighth Amendment

> Excessive Fines, Cruel and Unusual Punishment

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

## 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](https://constitutioncenter.org/the-constitution/amendments/amendment-viii/clauses/103), where constitutional scholars across the political spectrum debate its meaning and application.

## Source

Adapted from the [National Constitution Center](https://constitutioncenter.org/the-constitution/amendments/amendment-viii), which provides the canonical text and scholarly interpretations of the Eighth Amendment.