Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution deals with states' powers?

The Tenth Amendment is indeed the correct answer as it explicitly addresses the distribution of power between the federal government and the states. Ratified in 1791 as part of the Bill of Rights, the Tenth Amendment reserves to the states all powers not specifically granted to the federal government by the Constitution. This principle is foundational to the concept of federalism in the United States, emphasizing that states retain significant authority and autonomy over their own affairs.

This amendment plays a critical role in upholding the balance of power within the U.S. political system by affirming that any powers that are not delegated to the federal government are reserved for the states or the people. This limits the scope of federal authority and promotes the idea that state governments can legislate on various issues, leading to a diversity of laws and practices across the country.

In contrast, the other amendments listed do not focus specifically on states' powers. The First Amendment addresses freedoms concerning religion, expression, assembly, and the right to petition. The Second Amendment deals with the right to keep and bear arms. The Fifth Amendment addresses legal rights related to due process, including protection against self-incrimination and double jeopardy. All of these amendments serve important purposes, but none of them encapsulate the principle of