Which constitutional right was at the core of Gideon v. Wainwright?

The core of Gideon v. Wainwright revolves around the right to counsel. In this landmark case, the Supreme Court unanimously ruled that the Sixth Amendment, which guarantees the right to counsel, is applicable to state courts through the Fourteenth Amendment's Due Process Clause. Clarence Earl Gideon was charged with a felony and could not afford an attorney; he represented himself at trial and was convicted. Gideon appealed his conviction to the Supreme Court, which held that the right to assistance of counsel is fundamental to a fair trial. The decision highlighted the necessity of having a lawyer for defendants who cannot afford one, ensuring that the legal process is fair and just for all individuals, regardless of their financial situation. This ruling significantly expanded the rights of defendants in criminal cases, emphasizing that legal representation is essential for ensuring a fair trial.