Politics: A History Lesson: "Separation of church & state"

Trivia question:Where in the US Constitution does the phrase "separation of church & state" reside?
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Give up?
.
.
.
.
.
.
Answer: No where. The phrase has been tracked down to have first occurred in a letter between Thomas Jefferson & the Danburry Baptist Association in 1802.

Many people claim that the First Amendment is speaking of "separation of church & state."

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

Well, I guess it is a bit.

It does say that the government cannot make a law against or exalting a particular religion, but it says nothing about a religion getting involved in politics.





As a bit of interest, it does appear in another country's constitution. Here is a direct quote translated into English with the country's name removed so you can guess the country:

ARTICLE 124. In order to ensure to citizens freedom of conscience, the church in ______ is separated from the state, and the school from the church. Freedom of religious worship and freedom of antireligious propaganda is recognized for all citizens.

Can you guess which country?
.
.
.
.
.
.
Give up?
.
.
.
.
.
Answer: The USSR