Bill of Rights, Read it on Independence Day

The Constitution itself (before the amendments) has little to do with human rights, it is more about setting up the structure of government in a way that there are checks and balances so that no part of government can become “too strong” and say do things like start a war without congressional approval.    They did a dandy job, and they were in a hurry, they had to put a real government in place and start functioning.

Then some of the smart guys who had been subjected to governmental abuses under the British Government, determined that it was necessary to codify the human rights that would preserve human dignity, and create the inventive drive and productivity that would eventually allow the USA to become the greatest country on earth.   This is the freedom and economic/rule of law setup that works, this is what create true wealth.     The military does not create this freedom and prosperity, but when properly used, the military allows the system to continue without outside threat, and that is it.    The military is not the “source” of our freedom and prosperity

James Madison drafted the first Bill of Rights.

1791 the Bill of Rights was officially adopted and became part of the Basic Law of the Land.   The implied contract under which we live and toil, which provides stability to the idea that there is a rule of law that will allow you to keep the benefits of your creativity and productivity.    This Basic Law, this Implied Contract, which makes it all work out is one and the same as the Constitution.

It is very hard to operate a Government when your hands are tied/restricted by the rules that keep a free people, free.     I hope those with an open mind can review the below and think about the ramifications of all the current events, especially in light of those in power who insist that we must give up freedom to ensure “safety”, those who insist that it is OK for the Big Gov to spy on every communication you have in order to protect you.    

This is the central problem we face, in addition to a centuries long buildup of too many rules and too many regulations that strangle businesses and individuals.

Independence Day is about more than fireworks and parades, and a paid holiday.   Think on these things.  AND READ THE BELOW.

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The first ten Amendments are commonly known as the Bill of Rights.

   Amendment 1 - Freedom of Religion, Press, Expression.

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

Amendment 2 - Right to Bear Arms.

A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.

Amendment 3 - Quartering of Soldiers.

No Soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the Owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law.

Amendment 4 - Search and Seizure.

The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.

Amendment 5 - Trial and Punishment, Compensation for Takings.

No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.

Amendment 6 - Right to Speedy Trial, Confrontation of Witnesses.

In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the Assistance of Counsel for his defence.

Amendment 7 - Trial by Jury in Civil Cases.

In Suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact tried by a jury, shall be otherwise re-examined in any Court of the United States, than according to the rules of the common law.

Amendment 8 - Cruel and Unusual Punishment.

Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.

Amendment 9 - Construction of Constitution.

The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.

Amendment 10 - Powers of the States and People.

The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.