Question

the following question has two parts. answer part a first, and then part b.
part a
which of the following best describes a main purpose of the bill of rights?
a. to limit the powers of government
b. to specify the powers of the government
c. to describe a way for people to get justice
d. to provide a set of guidelines for people to live by
part b
which excerpt from the bill of rights most clearly supports the answer to part a?
a. to petition the government
b. congress shall make no law
c. a well regulated militia
d. the right to a speedy and public trial

Explanation:

• Part A: The Bill of Rights (the first 10 amendments to the US Constitution) was created to protect citizens from over - reaching government power. For example, the First Amendment protects freedoms like speech, religion, etc. from government interference. Option A “to limit the powers of government” is correct. Option B is about the Constitution's main body (not the Bill of Rights) which outlines government powers. Option C is too narrow as the Bill of Rights has a broader purpose than just a way to get justice. Option D is incorrect as it is not a set of general living guidelines but a protection of rights.
• Part B: “Congress shall make no law” (from the First Amendment) is a direct limitation on government (Congress) power. It shows that the government (Congress) is restricted in making laws that could infringe on rights. “To petition the Government” (Option A) is a right but not the best support for limiting government power. “A well - regulated militia” (Option C) is about the Second Amendment and the right to bear arms, not directly about limiting government power. “The right to a speedy and public trial” (Option D) is about a right in the justice system, not the most direct support for limiting government power.

Answer:

Part A: A. to limit the powers of government
Part B: B. Congress shall make no law