What do we refer to as the first ten amendments to the Constitution?

The first ten amendments to the Constitution are referred to as the Bill of Rights. This set of amendments was ratified in 1791 and was created to ensure individual liberties and protect citizens from government overreach. The Bill of Rights specifically addresses fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and the press, as well as protections against unreasonable searches and seizures, the right to a fair trial, and rights related to self-defense.

Understanding the significance of the Bill of Rights is essential, as it represents a critical foundation of American democracy, affirming the rights of individuals and limiting governmental power. The Preamble serves a different purpose as it outlines the objectives of the Constitution itself, while the Articles of Confederation were a precursor to the current Constitution, establishing a framework for the U.S. government before it was replaced. The Civil Rights Act, on the other hand, is legislation aimed at ending discrimination and ensuring equal rights, which is a separate matter from the amendments to the Constitution. Thus, the Bill of Rights stands out distinctly in its role and importance in safeguarding individual freedoms in the United States.