Today, as it is every year, is an important anniversary in American History. It is the anniversary of the ratification of the Bill of Rights, which happened December 15, 1791 and which guarantees to all citizens of the United States of America the following:
"The Bill of Rights protects freedom of speech, freedom of religion, the right to keep and bear arms, the freedom of assembly, the freedom to petition, and freedom of the press. It also prohibits unreasonable search and seizure, cruel and unusual punishment, and compelled self-incrimination. The Bill of Rights also prohibits Congress from making any law respecting establishment of religion and prohibits the federal government from depriving any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law. In federal criminal cases, it requires indictment by grand jury for any capital or "infamous crime", guarantees a speedy public trial with an impartial jury composed of members of the state or judicial district in which the crime occurred, and prohibits double jeopardy. In addition, the Bill of Rights states that "the enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people," and reserves all powers not granted to the federal government to the citizenry or States. "
(Paragraph quoted from Wikipedia see the rest of the article here.)
I am so grateful for this document and for the gifts of liberty it guarantees. I am grateful for the men and women throughout the history of this country who have fought to preserve it and to make it's principles apply to every citizen. It is more important than ever that we know these sacred rights and are watchful that our government does not impose upon them or limit them.
Happy 217th Birthday to the Bill of Rights... May you live forever.
1 comment:
excellent post. I had forgotten it was ratified on this day in history! Im so glad we have something like this!
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