Which amendment prohibits poll taxes in federal elections?

The 24th Amendment to the United States Constitution explicitly prohibits the use of poll taxes in federal elections. Ratified in 1964, this amendment was a significant step in the civil rights movement, aimed at eliminating financial barriers that prevented citizens, especially minorities and low-income individuals, from exercising their right to vote.

Poll taxes were used primarily in the Southern states and were intended to disenfranchise poor and minority voters by requiring them to pay a fee before they could vote. The 24th Amendment made it unconstitutional to impose such taxes in federal elections, reinforcing the principle that voting should be accessible to all citizens, regardless of their economic situation.

This amendment was further solidified by the Supreme Court's ruling in 1966, which declared poll taxes unconstitutional in state elections as well. Recognizing the importance of protecting voting rights for all Americans, the 24th Amendment plays a crucial role in promoting equal participation in the democratic process.