The Third Amendment

The Constitution’s Third Amendment is known for talking about those shiny 25 cent quarters. Well, not quite. It is the right that protects us from the government putting soldiers in our houses with us and requiring us to take care of them as well.

Like most of the rights in the Bill of Rights, it was made as a direct response to what Great Britain had done to the colonists. During the various wars fought by Britain, they would save money and resources by placing the soldiers in the homes of their citizens. These soldiers would be provided food, clothing, shelter and given priority to those resources above even the owner of the house.

Additionally, forcing citizens to “quarter” troops was a tool used to suppress rebellions and revolts. With armed and trained government fighters in their houses, people were discouraged from planning things against the government for fear of either being killed or sent to jail for their actions.

The Third Amendment is broken down into two sections. The first establishes that when there is not a war, the troops may only stay with the owner’s consent. The second establishes that even in times of war, they either need the owner’s consent or Congress to pass laws allowing it. Overall, this restriction serves to limit the government’s physical power and prevents them from forcing their beliefs onto others through the quartering of troops.

This is what the third amendment is and what it protects people from. As always, I’m Joseph Pool, your Poolitician and thank you for plunging into politics!