20 Nov 1789: New Jersey became the first state to ratify 10 of the 12 amendments proposed to the United States Constitution. These 10 became known as the Bill of Rights. Several states would not sign on the Constitution until specific individual privileges and rights were actually outlined. In Civics class we were required to memorize them and study their impact on our lives.
Today, the student on the street hasn’t a clue what the Bill of Rights actually are. When asked about the 2nd Amendment, they answer Gun Control. When asked about the 1st Amendment, students answer Free Speech. Do the schools teach what these rights are and how they function in American society? Your favorite genealogist, Arlene Eakle http://arleneeakle.com
PS George Mason of Virginia believed that personal and individual freedom was an essential and God-given freedom. So do I.