The Bill of Rights

The first 10 amendments

To the U. S. Constitution

The first amendment

Freedom of Speech Freedom of Religion Freedom of the Press Freedom of Assembly Right to petition the

government

Freedom of Religion The government cannot support one

religion over others, and cannot tell people what religion they MUST practice.

Free exercise of religion

Freedom of speech “Congress shall make no laws . . .

abridging the freedom of speech” People are free to say what they like.

Freedom of the press The press has the right to

publish opinions, and whatever news they like.

Freedom of Assembly People can meet together in public places

for peaceful protests.

2nd Amendment—Right to bear arms Citizens have the right to carry weapons.

Third Amendment The Government

cannot force you to shelter soldiers in your home without your consent in time of war or peace.

Fourth Amendment The police cannot

search people or their homes without good reason.

Fifth Amendment People have the right to a fair trial. You do not have to testify against yourself.

“I plead the fifth” You must have due process of law before

you are convicted.

Sixth Amendment Right to

speedy trial by impartial jury—meaning not favoring either side

Seventh Amendment If a disagreement is for something over

$20, you have the right to a trial by jury..

Eighth Amendment No excessive bail No cruel and unusual punishment

Ninth Amendment People have other rights that are not in the

Constitution.

Tenth Amendment Any power that the federal government

does not have, belongs to the states or the people.