What does the 10th Amendment emphasize?

The emphasis of the 10th Amendment lies in the principle of federalism, which delineates the distribution of powers between the federal government and the states. It explicitly states that any powers not granted to the federal government by the Constitution, nor prohibited to the states, are reserved for the states or the people. This amendment reinforces the idea that the federal government has only those powers specifically enumerated in the Constitution, ensuring a balance in the power dynamics between state and federal authorities.

In this context, the correct answer correctly identifies the core message of the 10th Amendment, highlighting the importance of state sovereignty and the limitations placed on federal authority. It is a fundamental aspect of American governance that protects the rights of states to make their own laws and exercise their powers, as long as they do not conflict with federal law. Understanding this aspect is crucial for recognizing how state and federal powers are meant to interact within the framework of the U.S. Constitution.

The other options relate to different amendments or legal principles. The powers of the federal government are addressed in various sections of the Constitution, while rights of the accused are primarily covered under the 4th, 5th, and 6th Amendments. Similarly, the prohibition of cruel punishment is referenced