What is the primary purpose of the Bill of Rights?

The primary purpose of the Bill of Rights is to protect individual rights and limit government power. This set of amendments, ratified in 1791, was included in the Constitution to ensure that the fundamental rights and liberties of individuals are safeguarded against potential infringement by the government. By explicitly stating certain rights, such as freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, and protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, the Bill of Rights acts as a crucial mechanism for placing limitations on governmental authority and assuring citizens that their freedoms are not at risk from government action.

In contrast to other options, the Bill of Rights does not focus on establishing government authority, defining citizen responsibilities, or specifically granting voting rights, which is addressed in other amendments. The emphasis on protecting individual liberties is what distinguishes the Bill of Rights as a critical component of American democracy, ensuring that personal freedoms are prioritized in the face of governmental power.