Which amendment guarantees freedom of speech, religion, and assembly?

The First Amendment to the United States Constitution is the foundation for several key freedoms that are essential to a democratic society. It explicitly guarantees the rights to free speech, free exercise of religion, and the right to assemble peacefully. These freedoms are integral to promoting open discourse and allowing individuals to express their beliefs and opinions without government interference.

In the context of the First Amendment, freedom of speech enables individuals to articulate their thoughts and opinions, which is vital for a functioning democracy. The guarantee of religious freedom protects individuals’ rights to practice their religion of choice without fear of persecution. Additionally, the right to assemble allows people to gather for peaceful protests, events, and meetings, emphasizing the collective nature of civic engagement.

The other amendments listed do not address these specific rights. The Second Amendment centers on the right to bear arms, the Third Amendment deals with the housing of soldiers, and the Fourth Amendment focuses on protections against unreasonable searches and seizures. Therefore, the First Amendment is the unequivocal choice for guaranteeing freedom of speech, religion, and assembly.