What is the purpose of the Constitution in relation to individual rights?

The purpose of the Constitution in relation to individual rights is to guarantee basic rights of Americans. The Constitution is fundamentally designed to establish a framework for the government while simultaneously protecting the individual liberties of the citizens. This protection is particularly articulated in the Bill of Rights, which comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution. These amendments outline specific freedoms such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly, as well as rights related to due process and security.

The intent behind including these protections is to prevent the government from infringing upon the basic rights and liberties that individuals are entitled to. This demonstrates the Constitution's dual role: not just as a blueprint for government structure, but as a protector of individual freedoms. By guaranteeing these rights, the Constitution ensures that citizens have a foundational set of protections that underpin their liberties and dignity in a democratic society.