First Amendment

The First Amendment (Amendment I) to the U.S. Constitution concerns several individual freedoms. It also prevents the government from intruding upon these freedoms. The First Amendment was adopted in 1791 as part of the Bill of Rights.

The freedoms covered under the First Amendment are varied. The first is religious liberty, as expressed by the Establishment Clause and the Free Exercise Clause. Through this amendment, Congress is forbidden from restricting an individual's religious practices. Also, Congress cannot promote one religion over others.

Next, Congress is barred from "abridging" the freedom of speech as well as the freedom of the press. This is a guarantee for a freedom of expression. Both individuals and the press are allowed to speak freely. But...