What are the first ten amendments to the Constitution commonly referred to as?

The first ten amendments to the Constitution are known as the Bill of Rights. This term reflects the intent of these amendments to safeguard individual liberties and rights against government infringement. Ratified in 1791, the Bill of Rights includes fundamental protections such as freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, protections against unreasonable searches and seizures, and guarantees of due process, among others.

The significance of the Bill of Rights lies in its role as a cornerstone of American democracy, emphasizing the importance of civil liberties and the limitations on government power. It was created partly in response to concerns about the potential for government overreach, ensuring that specific rights are enshrined and respected.

The other options refer to different historical documents or concepts. The Articles of Confederation served as the first constitution of the United States before the current Constitution was adopted, while the Declaration of Independence is the document that proclaimed American independence from British rule. The term “Constitution Amendments” is too vague and does not specifically denote any particular set of amendments, as it could refer to any amendment made to the Constitution over time. Thus, the term Bill of Rights distinctly identifies the first ten amendments and their purpose.