Final answer:
The founders wanted to protect religious liberties to ensure no establishment of a national religion and to allow the free exercise of individual beliefs, reflecting their experiences with religious persecution and a desire for a free society.
Step-by-step explanation:
The founders of the U.S. wanted to protect religious liberties to avoid the establishment of a national religion and ensure the free exercise of religion for individuals. This was rooted in their experiences with religious persecution in Europe and a desire to cultivate an environment where varying beliefs could coexist peacefully in the new nation. Protecting religious freedom was seen as essential to maintaining personal liberties and preventing tyranny. The inclusion of both the establishment clause and the free exercise clause in the First Amendment reflects a commitment to balancing state power with individual freedoms.Many of the early settlers in the United States came seeking respite from religious conflicts and persecution in Europe. They wanted to live in accordance with their beliefs without interference from a centralized religious authority. Hence, the First Amendment expressly prohibits the establishment of a state religion and protects the right to practice one's religion freely. Over time, as the nation's religious landscape became more diverse, the importance of these protections grew. However, the dual demands of no establishment and free exercise can lead to conflicts, such as when religious practices are claimed to interfere with public policies or the rights of others.Conclusion Ultimately, the founders wanted to prevent the kind of religious dominance that could lead to oppression, seeking a society where different religious views could be expressed without fear. The protections established have endured, although they have required continuous interpretation to balance religious freedoms with other societal interests. This foundational principle has allowed the U.S. to become a nation of remarkable religious diversity and freedom.