Final answer:
Freedom of religion in the United States is characterized by the prohibition of a state religion and the right to freely practice one's religion, as enshrined in the First Amendment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two elements that characterize freedom of religion in the United States are the prohibition of a state religion and the right of all citizens to practice their religion. This is rooted in the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which clearly prohibits the U.S. Congress from both establishing a national religion and interfering with the free exercise of religion. Over time, this has evolved into a careful separation of church and state, ensuring that there are no government-sanctioned religions and that individuals are free to engage in religious practices, as long as these practices do not harm others.