Bill of Rights Flashcards
What is the Bill of Rights?
The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, guaranteeing fundamental rights and freedoms.
Why was the Bill of Rights created?
To address Anti-Federalist concerns about protecting individual liberties from a powerful central government.
Which amendment guarantees freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition?
The First Amendment.
Which amendment protects the right to bear arms?
The Second Amendment.
Which amendment prohibits the forced quartering of soldiers in private homes during peacetime?
The Third Amendment.
Which amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures?
The Fourth Amendment.
What does the Fifth Amendment guarantee?
Protection against self-incrimination, double jeopardy, and guarantees due process and just compensation for eminent domain.
Which amendment guarantees the right to a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury?
The Sixth Amendment.
What rights does the Seventh Amendment protect?
The right to a jury trial in civil cases involving disputes over $20 or more.
Which amendment protects against excessive bail, fines, and cruel and unusual punishment?
The Eighth Amendment.
What does the Ninth Amendment state?
That rights not listed in the Constitution are still retained by the people.
What does the Tenth Amendment state?
That powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved to the states or the people.
When was the Bill of Rights ratified?
December 15, 1791.
Who is credited with drafting the Bill of Rights?
James Madison.
How does the Bill of Rights impact the balance of power in government?
It limits the federal government’s power to ensure individual and state rights are protected.
