AMSCO 3.10 — The Bill of Rights

Why did Anti-Federalists demand a bill of rights?

They feared a strong national government would abuse individual liberties.

Why did Federalists originally oppose a bill of rights?

They believed rights were already protected since Congress was elected by the people.

What was the Federalist argument against listing rights?

Listing some rights might allow the government to violate unlisted ones.

Why did Federalists finally agree to add a bill of rights?

To secure ratification in key states like Virginia and New York.

Who drafted most of the Bill of Rights?

James Madison.

When were the Bill of Rights approved by Congress?

1789

When were the Bill of Rights ratified by the states?

1791

How many original amendments were proposed?

Twelve.

How many amendments became the Bill of Rights?

Ten.

What does the First Amendment protect?

Freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition.

What does the Second Amendment protect?

The right to keep and bear arms.

What does the Third Amendment protect against?

Quartering soldiers in homes during peacetime.

What does the Fourth Amendment protect against?

Unreasonable searches and seizures.

What does the Fifth Amendment guarantee?

Due process, protection from self-incrimination, protection from double jeopardy, and rules for eminent domain.

What does the Sixth Amendment guarantee?

A fair and speedy public trial by jury in criminal cases.

What does the Seventh Amendment guarantee?

A trial by jury in civil cases.

What does the Eighth Amendment protect against?

Cruel and unusual punishment and excessive bail or fines.

What does the Ninth Amendment state?

Rights not listed in the Constitution are still retained by the people.

What does the Tenth Amendment state?

Powers not given to the federal government are reserved to the states or the people.

What did the Bill of Rights do politically?

It helped win over Anti-Federalists and unify the new nation.

What was the broader purpose of the Bill of Rights?

To limit the power of the federal government and protect individual liberties.

Which group felt validated by the Bill of Rights?

Anti-Federalists.

Which group used the Bill of Rights to strengthen support for the new government?

Federalists.

What long-term effect did the Bill of Rights have?

It became a core foundation of American civil liberties.