The first 10 amendments to the Constitution, also known as the Bill of Rights, were adopted on December 15, 1791. They were added to the Constitution to protect the individual rights of American citizens from the federal government. The purpose of the Bill of Rights is to ensure that the government does not abuse its power and that the rights of individuals are protected. The first 10 amendments include the following:
The First Amendment guarantees freedom of speech, religion, the press, assembly, and petition.
The Second Amendment protects the right to bear arms.
The Third Amendment prohibits the government from forcing citizens to house soldiers without their consent.
The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures.
The Fifth Amendment includes the right to due process of law, the right to remain silent, and the prohibition against double jeopardy and self-incrimination.
The Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to a speedy and public trial, an impartial jury, the right to be informed of the charges against oneself, the right to confront witnesses, and the right to legal counsel.
The Seventh Amendment guarantees the right to a trial by jury in civil cases.
The Eighth Amendment prohibits excessive bail, fines, and punishment.
The Ninth Amendment states that the enumeration of certain rights in the Constitution shall not be construed to deny or disparage other rights retained by the people.
The Tenth Amendment states that powers not delegated to the federal government by the Constitution, nor prohibited to it by the Constitution, are reserved for the states or the people.