Bill of Rights Flashcards
(21 cards)
What was the Bill of rights?
First ten amendments to the United States Constitution
When was the Bill of rights ratified?
15 December 1791
Who largely wrote the Bill of Rights?
James Madison
What was the Bill of Rights in response to?
Calls from several states for greater constitutional protection of individual liberties.
What was the purpose of the Bill of Rights?
Limit the power of the federal government and guarantee specific personal freedoms and legal protections.
What was the First Amendment?
Freedoms
What did the First Amendment protect?
Freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and the right to petition the government.
Limitation of First Amendment?
Does not protect speech that incites violence, defamation, or obscenity.
Purpose of First Amendment?
To ensure a free and open society.
What was the Second Amendment?
Right to bear arms
What was the Purpose of the Second Amendment?
Allow citizens to maintain security
What was the Third Amendment?
Quartering of Soldiers
What did the Third Amendment protect?
Citizens from being forced to house soldiers during peacetime without consent.
Why was Third Amendment brought in?
Response to British practice before and during the Revolutionary War.
What was Sixth Amendment?
Fair trial
What did the Sixth Amendment garauntee in terms of rights?
Speedy and public trial.
Trial by an impartial jury
What was the purpose of the Sixth Amendment?
To protect defendants’ rights in criminal prosecutions.
What was the Tenth Amendment?
States’ Rights
What did the Tenth Amendment reserve?
All powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved to the states or the people.
What was the purpose of the Tenth Amendment?
To limit federal authority and preserve state sovereignty.
Significance of Bill of Rights?
Protects Core Liberties
Symbol of American Identity ( commitment to liberty )
Empowers citizens
