As one of its first acts, the new Congress drafted a series of amendments in 1789 and sent them to the states for approval. In 1791, the Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments, became part of the Constitution. Free Speech, Press, and Religious Freedom The First Amendment safeguards basic individual liberties. It protects freedom of religion, speech, and the press. It also guarantees the right to assemble peacefully and to petition the government to change its policies. Because of the First Amendment, you cannot be arrested for criticizing a government official. You can attend the house of worship of your choice or none at all. You can read newspapers that do not represent the views of an official political party. These freedoms are important in a constitutional republic because they allow citizens to make informed decisions and take part freely in political life. Still, there are limits on the First Amendment. For example, the government can limit free speech if there is “a clear and present danger,” such as in time of war. The First Amendment's guarantee of freedom of religion has a long history. Many colonists came to America to escape religious persecution. They wanted to be able to pray and worship freely. Today, Americans are allowed to practice religion as they please or not to practice religion, without fear of government interference. The guarantee of freedom of religion has remained a key American value.
Reading this text answer this Identify the rights that the Bill of Rights protects
The Bill of Rights protects the following rights:
1. Freedom of religion
2. Freedom of speech
3. Freedom of the press
4. Right to peacefully assemble
5. Right to petition the government for change
Summarize how later amendments expanded democratic rights
Later amendments expanded democratic rights by addressing various social and political issues and further strengthening the protection of individual liberties. For example, the 13th Amendment, ratified in 1865, abolished slavery and involuntary servitude, significantly expanding the rights of African Americans. The 15th Amendment, ratified in 1870, prohibited the denial of voting rights based on race, further expanding suffrage.
The 19th Amendment, ratified in 1920, granted women the right to vote, marking a significant milestone in women's rights and furthering gender equality. The 24th Amendment, ratified in 1964, abolished poll taxes, which were used to disenfranchise African American voters, making voting more accessible to all citizens.
Additionally, the 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868, expanded the protection of individual rights by granting equal protection under the law and due process to all citizens, regardless of race. It also addressed citizenship rights for formerly enslaved individuals, furthering the democratic ideals of equality and fairness.
Overall, these later amendments expanded democratic rights by addressing issues of inequality, discrimination, and oppression, and promoting inclusivity and equal representation in the democratic process.
The Bill of Rights protects several rights, including:
1. Freedom of religion: This protects the right to practice any religion or no religion at all without government interference.
2. Freedom of speech: This protects the right to express one's opinions and beliefs without facing arrest or punishment from the government.
3. Freedom of the press: This protects the right to publish and distribute information through various forms of media without censorship or government control.
4. Right to assemble peacefully: This guarantees the right to gather together with others in a peaceful manner to express opinions, protest, or advocate for a cause.
5. Right to petition the government: This guarantees the right to address grievances and request changes in government policies or actions.
These rights are outlined in the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, which is part of the Bill of Rights.