What is the purpose of the Bill of Rights?

The purpose of the Bill of Rights is to protect individual liberties from government infringement. This first ten amendments to the Constitution were introduced in response to the concern that without explicit protections, citizens might be vulnerable to potential abuses of governmental authority. The Bill of Rights enshrines fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and the press, as well as rights regarding criminal proceedings and privacy. By clearly articulating these rights, the Bill of Rights serves as a safeguard for individual freedoms against possible overreach by the government, ensuring that personal liberties remain protected under the law.

In contrast, outlining the powers of Congress relates to the structure and functions of the legislative branch, which is not the focus of the Bill of Rights. Establishing the structure of the judiciary is covered in other sections of the Constitution, specifically in Article III, and not within the Bill of Rights. Similarly, while the process of amending the Constitution is detailed in Article V, it does not pertain to the rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights. These aspects illustrate that the primary aim of the Bill of Rights is distinct and focused on individual protections.