Final answer:
The incorporation of the Bill of Rights refers to the process of applying the protections and rights outlined in the Bill of Rights to state governments as well as the federal government through selective incorporation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Incorporation of the Bill of Rights
The incorporation of the Bill of Rights refers to the process of applying the protections and rights outlined in the Bill of Rights to state governments as well as the federal government. This process has been achieved through selective incorporation, where the Supreme Court has found that certain provisions of the Bill of Rights also apply to the states. This means that even though the Bill of Rights does not explicitly mention state governments, the Constitution effectively incorporates these rights into state laws and constitutions.
For example, the Supreme Court has ruled that state laws must respect the freedom of speech, religion, and protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, among other fundamental liberties.