Question

The freedom of religion provision in the First Amendment has two parts. Which part prevents the creation of a religious government?

Identify the clause that contains these protections, and explain its meaning.

Give your answer in the form of at least two complete sentences.

Answer 1

The part that prevents the creation of a religious government is the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment, which states "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion." This clause means the government may not establish an official religion, endorse or favor one faith (or religion over nonreligion), or coerce citizens to follow religious doctrines—i.e., it protects a separation of church and state.