Which document is considered the foundation of individual rights in the United States?

The Bill of Rights is often regarded as the cornerstone of individual rights in the United States. This document, comprising the first ten amendments to the Constitution, specifically outlines the fundamental rights and freedoms that are guaranteed to all citizens. It was introduced to ensure protection against government overreach and to enshrine personal liberties such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly, as well as the right to a fair trial and protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.

While the Constitution establishes the framework of the government and the principles upon which the nation is built, it is the Bill of Rights that explicitly enumerates the specific rights individuals possess. The Declaration of Independence, though significant, primarily articulates the philosophical foundation of America’s independence and the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, rather than detailing the rights of individuals in the context of governance. The Federalist Papers serve as important writings advocating for the ratification of the Constitution but do not directly enumerate individual rights. Therefore, the Bill of Rights is rightly identified as the foundational document specifically dedicated to outlining and protecting individual rights in the United States.