What does the 8th amendment prohibit?

The Eighth Amendment of the United States Constitution is aimed at protecting individuals from certain forms of punishment and judicial practices that are deemed excessive or inhumane. Specifically, it prohibits "excessive bail" and "cruel and unusual punishments." This means that when a defendant is charged with a crime, the bail set must not be excessive relative to the crime and the punishment imposed must not be cruel or unusual in relation to the offense committed.

This amendment is historically rooted in a reaction to the severe and often brutal punishments that were common in earlier legal systems. By establishing these prohibitions, the Eighth Amendment seeks to ensure fairness and humanity in the legal process, safeguarding individuals from being subjected to unduly harsh penalties or conditions while awaiting trial or serving their sentences.