Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom

The Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, enacted in 1786, is a landmark law that established the principle of separation of church and state. It proclaimed that individuals have the right to practice any religion or none at all, without government interference. This statute emphasized that government should not impose taxes to support religious institutions and that religious beliefs should not determine one’s civil rights. Its ideals influenced the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, laying the groundwork for religious liberty in America and promoting tolerance and respect for diverse beliefs.