Step-by-step explanation:
Atticus Finch was guarding Tom Robinson while he was in jail because Atticus was appointed by the court to defend Tom in his trial. Atticus took his duty as a defense attorney very seriously and believed that it was his responsibility to protect Tom, both inside and outside the courtroom.
Tom Robinson was a black man who was accused of raping a white woman in the deeply segregated town of Maycomb, Alabama during the 1930s. Atticus knew that Tom was at risk of being lynched by a mob of white people who were angry and believed in the racial prejudices of the time.
Therefore, Atticus stood guard at the jailhouse to protect Tom from any harm and to ensure that he received a fair trial. Atticus understood the gravity of the situation, and his determination to defend Tom, even in the face of strong opposition from his fellow townspeople, is a testament to his moral courage and dedication to justice.