Final answer:
The First Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees these rights, including freedom of religion, speech, press, and assembly. The separation of church and state is important to ensure religious freedom and prevent government interference in religious matters. The limiting of freedom of speech in a democratic society can impede the expression of opinions and hinder progress.
Step-by-step explanation:
The constitutional amendment that guarantees these rights is the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. It states that Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
The separation of church and state is important in this context because it ensures that the government does not show favoritism towards any religion or restrict people's freedom to practice their own religion. It helps maintain religious freedom and prevents the government from interfering in religious matters.
An example of a historical event where these rights were challenged is the Incorporation of the First Amendment through the Fourteenth Amendment. Through this process, the Supreme Court has gradually applied the protections of the First Amendment to state governments and expanded the scope of free speech and religious freedom.
Limiting freedom of speech in a democratic society has serious implications. It hampers the ability of people to express their opinions, share ideas, and engage in public discourse. It can lead to a lack of diversity of thought, stifle innovation, and hinder the progress of society. Therefore, protecting freedom of speech is crucial for a healthy democracy.