Final answer:
People gained or applied their rights through state constitutions, amendments, and court rulings based on the ideals of the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution. Over time, these rights have been expanded and interpreted to address contemporary issues and ensure greater equality, albeit with historical contradictions. It has been the continuous effort of society to vigilantly protect and advocate for these rights that has enabled their endurance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Individuals gained or applied their rights as outlined in the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution through various means. The principles laid out in the Declaration, including the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, shaped the nation's philosophical foundation. Advocacy for these rights can be seen throughout American history, inspiring numerous constitutional amendments and judicial interpretations that sought to expand and protect these liberties. State constitutions, written following the Declaration, typically included bills or declarations of rights, emphasizing their importance by placing them at the forefront.
Despite the high aspirations of these documents, the application of the rights they espoused was often marred by inconsistencies and contradictions, particularly regarding the institution of slavery and the lack of rights for women and minorities. Nonetheless, these rights articulated by the founders, influenced by Enlightenment thinkers such as John Locke, have been pivotal in ongoing efforts to achieve greater social and political equality. As society evolved, so too did the understanding and application of these rights, with courts playing a significant role in defining and applying constitutional principles to contemporary issues.
Ultimately, the enduring nature of these rights and their applicability in a modern context have depended on the active participation and eternal vigilance of citizens, politicians, and lawyers in advocating for and protecting these fundamental liberties.