What does the 14th amendment primarily protect?

The 14th Amendment of the United States Constitution primarily protects individuals by ensuring due process of law. This means that it guarantees every person within a jurisdiction the right to fair treatment through the judicial system. The amendment aims to prevent state and local governments from depriving any person of life, liberty, or property without appropriate legal proceedings.

Due process is a fundamental principle that underpins the American legal system, emphasizing that laws must be applied fairly and that individuals have the right to defend themselves in a legal setting. This protection is essential in safeguarding against arbitrary actions by the state and ensuring justice and equality under the law. The 14th Amendment also includes the Equal Protection Clause, which prohibits states from denying any person equal protection under the laws, further reinforcing the due process aspect by ensuring that legal protections are applied uniformly to all individuals. This broad scope of protection makes the 14th Amendment a critical component in the context of civil rights and liberties in the United States.