The incorporation of the 14th Amendment as it relates to civil liberties is one of the longest and most important constitutional debates of all time. Although the 14th Amendment was adopted in 1868, the Supreme Court issued its first interpretation of its scope five years later. The Court upheld the Privileges and Immunities Clause by a narrow vote of 5 to 4. This clause was subsequently considered the regular basis for respect for citizens' individual rights and civil liberties. The evolving understanding and provisions to protect one of these freedoms, freedom of religion, has changed throughout United States history. The proof is not only in the role played by the government, but also in several court cases. In the early 20th century, the Supreme Court began to incorporate only some of the specific provisions of the Bill of Rights, while at the same time denying the incorporation of others. Civil liberties are considered a protection against government actions. For example, the First Amendment to the Bill of Rights guarantees Americans the right to practice any religion they choose. The government therefore cannot interfere with an individual's freedom of worship. The federal government has been instrumental in expanding protections for individual religious freedom rights. In an earlier era when civilizations followed their leaders, such as the Middle Ages, the growth of individual freedoms was initially rather slow, if at all. Throughout the Dark Ages, this lack of progress was directly linked to the “lonely, nasty, brutish, and short” quality of life of the time – Thomas Hobbes (Woiceshyn). Once freedom became more desired by the populace around the 19th century...... middle of paper ......edom"). In conclusion, the incorporation of the 14th Amendment as it relates to development of understanding and providing The protection of civil liberties such as freedom of religion has changed throughout U.S. history The role played by government continues to grow, for better or worse, and could. even forcing courts to revise their interpretation from which laws are made Indeed, the separation of church and state has had its ups and downs From the case involving the transportation of children to schools. parishes to another regarding the use of prayer in public schools and until the President of the United States created faith-based organizations to benefit citizens in need of help, the government, and more and more. above all, its citizens, will continue to closely monitor the progress and protection of their freedom of religion.