Which Amendment gave Congress the right to impose a federal income tax?

The Sixteenth Amendment, ratified in 1913, specifically grants Congress the authority to impose a federal income tax. Before this amendment, the federal government faced significant limitations in generating revenue through direct taxes, as specified in the Constitution. The amendment was introduced to address these limitations, allowing for a more stable and flexible means of funding government operations directly from individuals based on their income levels.

This became particularly important in the early 20th century as the needs of the government evolved, including funding for various programs and initiatives. The passage of the Sixteenth Amendment marked a significant change in the relationship between the federal government and its citizens, allowing for a progressive tax system where higher income earners pay a larger percentage of their income in taxes.