Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution addresses the freedom of speech and religion?

The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is foundational to the protection of individual liberties, particularly concerning freedom of speech and religion. Ratified in 1791, this amendment explicitly states that Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

This ensures that individuals have the right to express themselves without government interference and allows for diverse religious practices. The significance of the First Amendment is profound, as it underpins the democratic principle that citizens can freely exchange ideas and beliefs, establishing a foundation for both political discourse and personal expression in society.

The other amendments mentioned—Second, Third, and Fourth—focus on different areas of individual rights, such as the right to bear arms, protection against excessive force in housing soldiers, and safeguards against unreasonable search and seizure, respectively. Therefore, these do not pertain to the protections of speech and religion as established in the First Amendment.