Which right does the First Amendment protect?

The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution is primarily known for protecting several fundamental rights that are crucial to the functioning of a democratic society. One of the key protections it offers is the right to free speech, which allows individuals to express their thoughts, opinions, and beliefs without interference from the government. This right is essential for promoting open dialogue, public discourse, and the exchange of ideas, which are fundamental principles in a democracy.

While the other choices represent important rights, they are covered by different amendments. The right to bear arms is protected by the Second Amendment, the right to vote is addressed through various amendments focused on voting rights (such as the Fifteenth, Nineteenth, and Twenty-fourth Amendments), and the right to a speedy trial is safeguarded by the Sixth Amendment. Each of these rights is crucial, but the specific focus of the First Amendment on free speech sets it apart and emphasizes the importance of individual expression in American society.