Reason for Bill of Rights?

• A. To expand federal powers
• B. To protect the rights of the people in America
• C. To regulate commerce
• D. To establish state militias

Answer: (B)

The Bill of Rights exists to protect individual freedoms and to limit the power of the federal government. It was added because those pushing for a stronger national framework wanted explicit protections for basic liberties, so the government wouldn’t overstep rights like speech, religion, and due process. The best way to see its purpose is that it’s about the people’s rights being safeguarded.

That’s why the option describing protection of the rights of the people in America fits best. It captures the core aim: enumerating and guarding freedoms, not expanding federal authority. The other ideas don’t align with that purpose—it's not about expanding federal powers, it doesn't primarily regulate commerce, and it doesn't aim to establish state militias (though the Second Amendment within it addresses arms and militia-related issues). Over time, these protections also came to limit state actions through incorporation, further ensuring rights are safeguarded across government levels.