Celebrating Independence

Discussion in 'Freedom and Liberty' started by RightHand, Jul 4, 2007.


  1. RightHand

    RightHand Been There, Done That RIP 4/15/21 Moderator Moderator Emeritus Founding Member

    Amendment I


    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.
    We're still doing pretty darn good on this one even if I don't always like what I hear or read.


    Amendment II

    A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.

    "A Militia is an organization of citizens to provide defense, emergency or paramilitary service, or those engaged in such activity."

    As citizens of this country, each of us are the militia of our nation. This Amendment needs our constant vigilance.



    Amendment III

    No soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law.

    After all these years, still our decision as owners


    Amendment IV

    The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.

    What is "unreasonable" is as great a question today as it ever was.

    Amendment V

    No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a grand jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the militia, when in actual service in time of war or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.

    Although the Grand Jury system has become merely a formality in man cases, the other mentions are adhered to fairly well. I have a problem with eminent domain as there have been recent ruling which allowed seizure of property "for public good" but put into the hands of private businesses.

    Amendment VI

    In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the state and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the assistance of counsel for his defense.

    Speedy trial....oops - not working

    Amendment VII

    In suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact tried by a jury, shall be otherwise reexamined in any court of the United States, than according to the rules of the common law.

    Abused abused abused

    Amendment VIII

    Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.

    The definition of "cruel and unusual punishment" seems to have changed through the years to include anything that is remotely uncomfortable, physically or emotionally.



    Amendment IX

    The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.

    I have always interpreted this to mean that just because a right isn't herein stated does not mean it does not exist. The first American loophole.

    Amendment X

    The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people.

    I think this amendment is in the greatest jeopardy. Our federal government gains increasing 'power' every year. This amendment must be protected.
     
  2. jash

    jash Monkey+++

    Amen and Amen.
     
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