Rebels with a Cause

Our forefathers were rebels. Way back then, when we were fighting for our independence from England (unheard of because while small, it was mighty) our forefathers wrote up the Constitution, while the war was still going on! It, along with other papers was a sort of screw you to England, especially to the king. 

The Bill of Rights were added to the Constitution on December 15, 1791. Because these men put their lives on the line, we are now free and have individual rights that was considered crazy to give people at that time. They are:

Amendment 1: Freedom of speech, press, religion, right to peacefully assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances

Amendment 2: Right to bear arms

Amendment 3: Protection of homeowners from quartering troops, except during war 

Amendment 4: Protections against unreasonable search and seizure (police need a warrant to search, there are some limitations to this though)

Amendment 5: Rights of due process (protects people from the law), protection against double jeopardy (being tried more than once for the same crime after legitimate acquittal) and self-incrimination (you don't need to turn yourself in)

Amendment 6: Right to a speedy and public trial by jury of peers and rights of accused (which include to be confronted with witnesses against him/her and to have assistance of counsel ~ If you cannot afford an attorney one will be provided at State expense)

Amendment 7: Right to trial by jury in civil cases

Amendment 8: Protection from cruel and unusual punishment and excessive bail (no more Iron Maidens except for the band)

Amendment 9: Protection of rights not specified in the Bill of Rights (meaning if they forgot something and it is your right as a human being, you get it)

Amendment 10: Powers of the State and people

Today I want you to go out and enjoy your freedoms as Americans, or at least think about other countries that don't have these freedoms that we take for granted each and everyday.