Florida Civic Literacy Practice Exam

What are the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution called?

1. The Articles of Confederation

2. The Declaration of Independence

3. The Bill of Rights

4. The Preamble

The correct answer is: The Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution are called the Bill of Rights. This set of amendments was ratified in 1791 and was established to ensure the protection of individual liberties and rights against potential governmental overreach. The Bill of Rights enshrines fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, and guarantees of due process, among others. Its creation was largely influenced by the debate over the need for explicit protections for individual rights, which was a significant concern for many who advocated for a more powerful federal government following the adoption of the original Constitution. The alternative choices refer to other important historical documents or concepts, but none fulfill the specific role of the first ten amendments. The Articles of Confederation were the initial governing document for the United States, outlining a loose confederation of states before the Constitution was adopted. The Declaration of Independence is a separate document, declaring independence from British rule, and does not contain amendments but rather articulates fundamental principles of government and individual rights. The Preamble serves as an introduction to the Constitution itself, outlining its purposes, but does not represent any amendments. Understanding the significance of the Bill of Rights is crucial for recognizing the foundation of individual freedoms in