Lesson 5 Bill of Rights

After the Constitution was passed, many people wanted the rights of Americans spelled out more clearly than they were in the Constitution. To do this, Congress passed amendments (changes) to the constitution. The first ten amendments were passed in 1791. they are called the Bill of Rights.

Bill of Rights

1

People may practice any religion they choose.
Freedom of speech or right to a free press

5

No person shall be held for any crime unless made to do so by a grand jury.
No person shall be made to give evidence against himself.

6

Right to a speedy trial by people who do not favor either side.
Accused person must be told the charges against him.
He has the right to face the witnesses against him and to have a lawyer in his defense.

8

 Reasonable bail
Protection from cruel and unusual punishment

How the Constitution is Amended

2/3 of each House of Congress

 

B or C

2/3 of all state legislatures or conventions

 

K

 

 

 K

C

3/4 of all states (38) needed to ratify

 

B

 

K

 

becomes an amendment to the Constitution