What does the 1st Amendment guarantee?

The 1st Amendment guarantees several fundamental rights, with freedom of speech being one of its key protections. This amendment, part of the Bill of Rights ratified in 1791, ensures that individuals have the right to express their thoughts, opinions, and beliefs without government interference or censorship. This freedom is essential for a democratic society, as it fosters open dialogue, debate, and the exchange of ideas, which are critical for the functioning of a healthy democracy.

While the other provided choices relate to important rights, they are protected under different amendments in the Constitution. For example, the right to bear arms is addressed by the 2nd Amendment, the right to a speedy trial is covered in the 6th Amendment, and protection against unreasonable searches is guaranteed by the 4th Amendment. Each of these amendments serves to protect various aspects of individual rights, but the specific guarantee of freedom of speech belongs unequivocally to the 1st Amendment, making it the correct choice.