​The Bill of Rights

• ​James Madison promised to add a Bill of Rights to the Constitution

• In 1789, Madison began writing a list of proposed amendments

  • The House approved 12

  • States ratified 10

• Those 10 amendments are called the Bill of Rights (took effect in 1791), and protect individual liberties

​The Bill of Rights

• The protection of individual liberties is important in a representative democracy

• Without this, peoples' liberties may not always be protected due to majority rule

• This is the idea that the greatest number of people in society can make policies for everyone. While this means that most people agree on what the law should be, it also means that smaller groups, or minorities, might lose their rights. The Bill of Rights ensures that the rights of all citizens are protected.

• ​Freedom of Religion

• Government cannot support or interfere with the practice of a religion

• Keeps the government from favoring one religion over another, or establishing an official religion

​The First Amendment: Freedom of Religion

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​First Amendment Continued

Cannot endanger public safety, such as yelling "Fire!"​

• assembly- hold meetings

• anyone can gather to discuss issues or conduct business

• As long as people gather peacefully and do not engage in illegal activities, the government cannot interfere

​Freedom of Assembly

• ​Americans have the right to express their own ideas and views

• Right to hear the ideas and views of others

• Does not include slander, libel, obscenities, or a public danger​

​Freedom of Speech & Press