Final answer:
The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, known as the Bill of Rights, are a series of protections that guarantee individual freedoms, such as the freedom of speech and the right to a fair trial. They were ratified in 1791 to ease concerns about federal power and are fundamental to Americans' civil liberties.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution are commonly referred to as the Bill of Rights. Ratified on December 15, 1791, these amendments were added to assure the Anti-Federalists that individual freedoms would be protected from the powers of the federal government. Among these fundamental rights and protections are the freedom of speech, press, religion, and the right to assemble peacefully (First Amendment); protection against unreasonable searches and seizures (Fourth Amendment); due process of law in criminal cases (Fifth Amendment); the right to a fair and speedy trial (Sixth Amendment); and protection against cruel and unusual punishment (Eighth Amendment). Additionally, these amendments establish that there are other rights retained by the people which may not be listed in the Constitution (Ninth Amendment).
These amendments collectively form the Bill of Rights, which sets out the federal civil rights and are the cornerstone of American civil liberties. They delineate the personal freedoms and rights of individuals and provide protection from various forms of governmental power. The Fourteenth Amendment further extends these protections, preventing state governments from infringing upon these rights and liberties.