The Bill of Rights

The first 10 amendments to the Constitution make up the Bill of Rights. Written by James Madison in response to calls from several states for greater constitutional protection for individual liberties, the Bill of Rights lists specific prohibitions on governmental power.

1. This amendment gives us our freedom of speech, religion, and press.
2. This amendment gives us the right to possess a gun.
3. This amendment forbids the government from making U.S. citizens house members of the military against their will.
4. This amendment says that your property can't be searched or seized without a warrant.
5. This amendment gives people accused of a crime "the right to remain silent."
6. This amendment gives people accused of a crime the right to a fair and speedy trial.
7. This amendment guarantees a person accused of a crime the right to a trial by a jury of their peers.
8. This amendment forbids the judicial system from using "cruel and unusual" punishments.
9. This amendment protects unmentioned rights for U.S. citizens.
10. This amendment gives states the right to decide any policy not established by the Constitution.

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