Founding Documents
The Bill of Rights and Amendments
The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution guarantee the fundamental freedoms that protect every person from government overreach.
What Is the Bill of Rights?
The Bill of Rights is made up of the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution. Ratified in 1791, they guarantee core liberties for all people and set firm limits on the power of government.
- First Amendment: Freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition.
- Second Amendment: The right to keep and bear arms.
- Third Amendment: Protection from the quartering of troops in private homes.
- Fourth Amendment: Protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.
- Fifth Amendment: Rights in criminal cases, including due process and protection from self-incrimination.
- Sixth Amendment: The right to a fair and speedy trial.
- Seventh Amendment: The right to a jury trial in civil cases.
- Eighth Amendment: Protection from cruel and unusual punishment.
- Ninth Amendment: Recognition of rights beyond those listed in the Constitution.
- Tenth Amendment: Powers not given to the federal government are reserved to the states or the people.
Why It Matters
The Bill of Rights safeguards personal liberties and limits governmental power. It remains a cornerstone of democracy and civil rights today.
- Understanding the ConstitutionSee how the amendments fit into the Constitution as a whole.
- Read the originalView the full Bill of Rights at the National Archives.
Explore more of America’s founding charters.