What is the Bill of Rights?

The Bill of Rights is accurately identified as the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution. These amendments were ratified in 1791 and are pivotal because they outline the fundamental rights and liberties of American citizens. Their primary purpose is to protect individual freedoms and limit government power, ensuring that citizens have guarantees such as freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, and protections against unreasonable searches and seizures, among others.

Understanding the Bill of Rights is essential for grasping the foundation of American democratic principles and civil rights. It serves as a vital element in the legal and cultural framework of the United States, shaping discussions around personal freedoms and governmental authority.