Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution addresses excessive bail and cruel and unusual punishment?

The Eighth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution specifically addresses concerns regarding excessive bail and cruel and unusual punishment. This amendment is part of the Bill of Rights and serves to protect individuals from excessive financial burdens imposed by bail, ensuring that bail amounts are not set exorbitantly high in relation to the alleged crime. Additionally, it prohibits punishments that are considered inhumane or disproportionately severe for the crime committed.

Historically, the Eighth Amendment has been crucial in various court rulings that evaluate the acceptability of certain punitive practices, ensuring a humane justice system. The concepts of both excessive bail and cruel and unusual punishment are directly tied to protecting the dignity and rights of individuals within the legal system, highlighting the importance of proportionality in punishment and the safeguarding of individual liberties against governmental overreach.