What is the Bill of Rights?

The Bill of Rights refers to the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution, which were ratified in 1791. These amendments were specifically designed to protect the individual rights and liberties of American citizens against potential government overreach. They encompass vital freedoms, such as the freedom of speech, religion, and the press, the right to bear arms, protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, the right to due process, and protection against cruel and unusual punishment, among others.

This set of amendments was crucial in addressing the concerns of the Anti-Federalists, who feared that a strong central government might infringe upon personal freedoms. By explicitly listing these rights, the Bill of Rights ensures that fundamental liberties are recognized and protected within the framework of American law. This context is essential to understanding the purpose and significance of the Bill of Rights, distinguishing it from statutes or declarations that may not specifically address individual liberties.