The fourteenth amendment was ratified in 1868. It said that all people, any race, would have the same rights as everyone else. This also meant there would be no public discrimination against anyone who was "different." This amendment was added to protect those who weren't the typical white. It made everyone appear equal and thought of the same to the government. This affected the US by making people see that we are all equal. Also, those who were a different race or color could have a chance on fa normal and fair life, unlike they would if there was slavery or discrimination.