Which document outlines the rights of citizens and limits government power?

Prepare for the U.S. Government and Constitution Test. Enhance knowledge with flashcards and interactive questions. Each question offers hints and detailed explanations. Ace the test with confidence!

The Bill of Rights is the correct answer because it specifically enumerates individual rights and freedoms while simultaneously placing restrictions on government power. Ratified in 1791, the Bill of Rights consists of the first ten amendments to the Constitution and guarantees fundamental liberties such as freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, and protection against unreasonable searches and seizures. It was designed to ensure that certain inherent rights are protected from government infringement, reinforcing the principle that the government should not overreach its authority concerning citizens' freedoms.

The Federalist Papers, while instrumental in advocating for the ratification of the Constitution and explaining the intentions behind its provisions, do not serve as a direct declaration of rights for citizens. The Constitution itself establishes the framework of the national government and outlines its powers but does not include a specific list of individual rights. The Declaration of Independence articulates the philosophical foundations of America, asserting that all individuals have unalienable rights, but it does not serve as a legal document that restricts government authority or outlines citizens' rights within the framework of governance. Thus, the Bill of Rights is the critical document that uniquely fulfills the requirement of outlining citizens' rights and limiting government power.

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