Which amendment provides for the right to free speech?

The First Amendment is foundational to the protection of individual liberties in the United States, specifically establishing the right to free speech. Ratified in 1791, the First Amendment prohibits Congress from making laws that infringe upon the freedoms of speech, press, religion, assembly, and petition. This broad protection ensures that individuals can express their ideas and opinions without fear of government retaliation, fostering a vibrant democratic society.

In contrast, the Second Amendment addresses the right to bear arms, while the Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, and the Fifth Amendment ensures rights related to due process and protection against self-incrimination. Understanding these amendments highlights the specific focus of the First Amendment on free expression, which is essential for democratic discourse and individual autonomy.