What is the purpose of the Bill of Rights?

The purpose of the Bill of Rights is to protect individual liberties. This collection of the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution was introduced to ensure that certain fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals are safeguarded from government interference. These rights include freedoms such as speech, religion, press, assembly, and the right to a fair trial, among others. By clearly articulating these protections, the Bill of Rights helps to limit the powers of the government and provides a framework for individuals to assert their rights against potential infringements.

In contrast, other options focus on different aspects of government structure or function. For example, outlining the powers of Congress pertains more to the main body of the Constitution and how legislative powers are distributed, while defining federal and state powers relates to the balance of authority between different levels of government. Establishing government branches refers to the separation of powers that forms the framework of the federal government but does not specifically address individual rights. Thus, the primary role of the Bill of Rights is distinctly about safeguarding personal freedoms and rights.