The Adoption of the First Amendment
Our Constitution was adopted in 1787, but it did not mention freedom of the press. The original Constitution set up our government's structure, but freedom of the press became part of the Constitution with the ratification of the Bill of Rights in 1791.
Madison's 1st introduction of the free press clause. (June 8, 1798)
"The people shall not be deprived or abridged of their right to speak, to write, or to publish their sentiments, and the freedom of the press, as one of the great bulwarks of liberty shall be inviolable." House changed the clause. (August 25, 1789)
"The freedom of speech and of the press and the right of the people to peacefully assemble and consult for their common good, shall not be infringed." After more editing, the House and Senate agreed and jointly submitted the First Amendment as we know it today. It was ratified in the Bill of Rights on December 15, 1791.
"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." |
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