What is meant by “equal protection” under the Fourteenth Amendment?

The concept of "equal protection" under the Fourteenth Amendment is a fundamental principle in American constitutional law that mandates individuals are entitled to equal treatment under the law. This means that the government cannot discriminate against individuals or groups based on characteristics such as race, gender, religion, or national origin. The intention behind this provision is to ensure fairness and justice, providing a legal framework that promotes equality for everyone regardless of their background.

This principle has been interpreted through various landmark Supreme Court cases, reinforcing the idea that laws should not be applied in a discriminatory manner. It seeks to prevent any form of unfair treatment that could arise from government action or inaction.

The other options presented do not accurately capture the essence of "equal protection." While they touch on aspects of legal rights or fairness, they do not specifically define the core requirement of equal treatment under the law that the Fourteenth Amendment emphasizes.