What rights does the 1st Amendment guarantee?

The First Amendment of the United States Constitution is foundational in protecting various fundamental rights that are essential to a democratic society. It guarantees individuals the freedoms of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition. This means that people can express their opinions freely, practice their faith without government interference, gather peacefully for demonstrations or protests, and seek to address grievances through petitions to the government. These protections ensure a vibrant public discourse and serve as checks against governmental power, enabling citizens to participate actively in the governmental process.

In contrast, the other options relate to different amendments within the Bill of Rights, focusing on other essential civil liberties and rights such as protection against unreasonable searches (Fourth Amendment), due process and protection from self-incrimination (Fifth Amendment), and the right to a speedy trial and legal representation (Sixth Amendment). Understanding these distinctions is crucial when studying constitutional rights, as each amendment addresses specific areas of citizen rights and government limitations.