How many amendments are contained in the Bill of Rights?

The Bill of Rights consists of 10 amendments that were ratified on December 15, 1791. These amendments were added to the United States Constitution to ensure certain fundamental rights and civil liberties for individuals. The first ten amendments address specific prohibitions on governmental power and protect various aspects such as freedom of speech, religion, the right to bear arms, and the rights of defendants in criminal cases.

Understanding that the Bill of Rights represents a crucial development in American constitutional law is essential. It serves to limit the government's authority over individuals and protect citizens' rights, which is a foundational principle of democracy and republicanism in the United States.