Which document is considered a cornerstone of human rights in America?

The Bill of Rights is considered a cornerstone of human rights in America because it comprises the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, explicitly outlining individual liberties and protections against government overreach. These amendments guarantee essential rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly, as well as the right to a fair trial and protection from unreasonable searches and seizures. By enumerating these rights, the Bill of Rights serves as a critical safeguard for personal freedoms and ensures that citizens have recognized legal protections.

The Constitution as a whole establishes the framework for government and lays out the system of checks and balances, but it does not explicitly enumerate the individual rights and liberties that the Bill of Rights does. The Declaration of Independence articulates the philosophical foundations of human rights and the notion of equality, yet it does not provide specific protections or legal guarantees. The Articles of Confederation, which preceded the Constitution, primarily focused on the structure of government and are generally considered inadequate in addressing the rights of individuals. Thus, the Bill of Rights stands out as the key document specifically dedicated to securing human rights within the American legal framework.