The History of the Bill of Rights
Posted by MLC Secret Squirrel Blog Writer on Dec 9th 2020
The United States Constitution established the American federal government, which was an essential step following the revolution against the British. The Constitution outlined the fundamental laws and rights of American citizens.
While the Constitution was a historic step toward freedom in the country, it did not originally include incontestable protection of basic rights for American citizens. As a result, the Bill of Rights was created.
What Is the Bill of Rights?
The Bill of Rights is the first 10 amendments of the United States Constitution. These amendments guarantee specific rights to the citizens of the United States. The rights guaranteed by these amendments vary but include the right to free speech, a jury of year peers, to bear arms, and many others.
The Bill of Rights guarantees the most basic rights to the American people. Other amendments and laws have been created since the first 10 amendments to adapt to the country’s changing landscape, but the Bill of Rights created the foundation
A Brief History of the Bill of Rights
The Constitution was originally approved in 1789, but there were those who believed it didn’t offer enough protections for American’s basic rights. As a result, many Americans petitioned to have the Consitution changed to reflect these rights, which later became the first 10 amendments or the Bill of Rights.
James Madison would set out to write the Bill of Rights after inspiration from Thomas Jefferson. Madison introduced 19 amendments to the Constitution on September 25, 1789. Congress moved forward with adopting 12 of the 19 amendments and sent them to the states for ratification. The Bill of Rights ultimately would include 10 of these amendments and became part of the Constitution on December 10, 1791.
The Bill of Rights guarantees specific freedoms to Americans while outlining restrictions for the federal and state governments. Throughout American history, several other amendments were added to the Constitution to address changes in the country, including the abolishment of slavery and the right to vote. Now, acts of Congress that conflict with the Bill of Rights and Constitution can be voided by the United States Supreme Court.
Celebrating Bill of Rights Day
Bills of Rights Day is a celebration on the anniversary of the creation of the first 10 amendments. On December 15th of each year, the Bill of Rights is recognized for the inalienable rights it gives to American citizens. Bill of Rights Day is an excellent time to honor the history of America and teach the youth about the Constitution and our freedoms as citizens of this great country.
MLC Honors the History of America and Sacrifices for Our Freedoms
After our rights were ratified in the United States Constitution, it was American troops who fought and continue to fight to protect those rights. Military Luggage Company would like to take a moment to recognize the sacrifices our service members and veterans have made to protect our freedoms. We hope you have a wonderful day on the anniversary of the Bill of Rights and take this opportunity to learn more about our country’s rich history!