What was the main purpose of the Bill of Rights?

The main purpose of the Bill of Rights is to protect individual freedoms and rights. Ratified in 1791, the Bill of Rights consists of the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution and was created to ensure specific protections for individual liberties against potential government overreach. These amendments cover essential rights, such as freedom of speech, religion, the right to bear arms, protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, and the right to a fair trial, among others.

This emphasis on safeguarding personal freedoms was a significant factor in the ratification of the Constitution, as many states and citizens were concerned about the potential for federal power to infringe upon individual liberties. By specifically outlining these rights, the Bill of Rights aims to secure and clarify the fundamental freedoms and protections that belong to all individuals, thus reinforcing the principle of limited government while promoting personal autonomy.