Bill of rights

Definition

The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1791, that guarantee fundamental individual rights and liberties such as freedom of speech, religion, and the press. They were added to address Anti-Federalist concerns that the Constitution did not adequately protect personal freedoms.

Examples

  • The First Amendment protecting freedom of speech, religion, and the press
  • The Fourth Amendment protecting against unreasonable searches and seizures
  • The Sixth Amendment guaranteeing the right to a speedy trial
Key Fact

James Madison drafted the Bill of Rights, drawing from the Virginia Declaration of Rights.

Related Terms

Constitution Amendments Due process Selective incorporation

Study This Concept

Practice Bill of Rights with free review games in these units:

AP U.S. Government and Politics Unit 3: Civil Liberties and Civil Rights U.S. Government Unit 6: Civil Liberties and Rights