Question

Why was there a Bill of Rights added to the US Constitution?

The Bill of Rights called for overthrowing unjust governments.

The Bill of Rights explicitly protected certain natural rights.

The Bill of Rights promoted the separation of powers.

The Bill of Rights established a permanent social contract.

Answer 1

Correct choice: The Bill of Rights explicitly protected certain natural rights.

Why: Many delegates and citizens (the Anti‑Federalists) feared the new Constitution gave a stronger central government too much power and lacked an explicit list of protections for individual liberties. To secure ratification and address those concerns, James Madison proposed amendments that became the first ten amendments, enumerating protections such as freedom of speech, religion, assembly, due process, trial by jury, and protection against unreasonable searches and cruel and unusual punishment.

Why the others are incorrect:
- "Called for overthrowing unjust governments." — No. The Bill of Rights lists protections and limits on government power; it does not instruct or authorize revolt.
- "Promoted the separation of powers." — The separation of powers is accomplished by the Constitution’s structure (three branches), not by the Bill of Rights, which focuses on individual liberties and procedural protections.
- "Established a permanent social contract." — Social‑contract theory influenced the Founders, but the Bill of Rights does not itself establish a distinct or new social contract; it specifies rights and limits within the constitutional framework.