Bill of Rights Day
About Bill of Rights Day
When is Bill of Rights Day? This special day is always observed on December 15
Today is Bill of Rights Day, a December 15 holiday. To Americans, the Bill of Rights are key amendments to the U.S. Constitution, that protect our rights.
On March 4, 1789, the Constitution of the United States of America was ratified by the former 13 colonies and went into effect. States and individuals were concerned that the Constitution did not properly cover and protect several rights of individuals. The Constitution was signed by the original 13 states with the requirement, or understanding, that a Bill of Rights would be created, amending the new U.S. Constitution.
On September 25, 1789, the First Congress of the United States proposed to the state legislatures 12 amendments to the Constitution. 10 of these amendments were added to the Constitution on December 15, 1791. Of the 12 proposed amendments, 10 were approved.
On Bill of Rights Day, we hope you celebrate your American Citizenship and spend a few minutes reflecting upon the freedoms that you enjoy. These freedoms do not exist in many countries of the world.
Bill of Rights Amendments
Amendment 1- Freedom of speech, press, and religion
Amendment 2 – The right to bear arms
Amendment 3- Protection of homeowners from quartering troops, except during war.
Amendment 4 – Rights and protections against unreasonable search and seizure
Amendment 5 – Rights of due process of law, protection against double jeopardy, self-incrimination
Amendment 6 – Rights of a speedy trial by jury of peers and rights of accused
Amendment 7 – Rights to trial by jury in civil cases
Amendment 8 – Protection from cruel and unusual punishment, excessive bail
Amendment 9 – Protection of rights not specified in the Bill of Rights
Amendment 10 – States rights, power of the states
Of the 12 original amendments, which ones were not approved?
The original Amendments # 1 and #2 did not pass These dealt with the number of representatives to congress, and compensation to representatives. Had they passed, there would be over 6,000 congressmen today!!!
How to Celebrate Bill of Rights Day
- Celebrate your American citizenship.
- Learn about how the need for the Bill of Rights was identified and established.
- Read the Bill of Rights.
- Learn more about the importance of these (your) rights.
Thought for Today
Some people are like a callus: they always show up after the work is finished.
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