What are the Bill of Rights?

The Bill of Rights refers to the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, which were ratified in 1791. These amendments were introduced to ensure the protection of individual liberties and to limit the power of the federal government. They enumerate specific rights and freedoms, such as the freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, and the right to a fair trial, thereby providing a critical framework for American democracy and civil rights.

The other options do not accurately describe the Bill of Rights. This includes references to laws governing trade or guidelines for local government, both of which pertain to different aspects of governance and law. Additionally, the original articles of the Constitution represent the main body of the Constitution prior to the adoption of the amendments, focusing on the structure of government rather than individual rights. Thus, identifying the Bill of Rights as the first ten amendments to the Constitution is essential for understanding its role in safeguarding personal freedoms and rights within the United States.