What does the First Amendment protect regarding religion?

• A. It prohibits establishment of religion and protects free exercise of religion
• B. It requires prayer in public schools
• C. It bans all religious symbols in public spaces
• D. It creates a national church

Answer: (A)

Two key ideas shape religion in the First Amendment: the government cannot establish an official state church or endorse a particular faith, and individuals are free to practice their religion without government interference. This combination means the amendment protects both the prohibition on government-established religion (neutrality toward religion) and the right of people to practice their beliefs. That’s why the best choice states that the First Amendment prohibits establishment of religion and protects free exercise of religion. It doesn’t mandate prayer in public schools, it doesn’t ban all religious symbols in public spaces, and it doesn’t create a national church.