What is the primary intent of the 1st Amendment?

The primary intent of the 1st Amendment is to protect freedom of expression and prevent government censorship. This Amendment guarantees essential rights such as the freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition. By safeguarding these freedoms, the 1st Amendment aims to enable individuals to express their thoughts and beliefs without interference or suppression from the government. This is foundational to a democratic society because it promotes open discourse, diverse viewpoints, and the ability to challenge governmental authority, which is critical for the functioning of a healthy democracy.

The other options pertain to different constitutional rights and principles. The right to bear arms is addressed by the 2nd Amendment, the powers of Congress are outlined in Article I of the Constitution, and the right to a fair trial is guaranteed by the 6th Amendment. Each of these addresses distinct aspects of American governance and individual rights, highlighting the specificity of the protections offered by the 1st Amendment in relation to freedom of expression.