This article was edited and reviewed by FindLaw Attorney Writers | Last updated July 02, 2021
Adopted in 1791, the First Amendment protects freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and freedom of the press. It also gives those in the United States the right to peacefully protest and petition the government. It was added to the Constitution along with nine other amendments, which together became known as the Bill of Rights.
The First Amendment states:
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.
In essence, the First Amendment protects an individual's religious freedom, the free press, and freedom of speech from interference by the government.