![]() ![]() This clause is closely linked to the Establishment Clause and the two often both come into play in cases involving religion, working either together or opposite of each other depending on the circumstances. The following clause, the Free Exercise clause, forbids the government from interfering with or discriminating against citizens for their religious beliefs. This is often referred to as the “separation of church and state”, based on the view advanced by Thomas Jefferson. Additionally, in contrast to the diverse groups that came to the colonies in order to practice religion freely, England had an organized church established by the government.The First Amendment begins with the Establishment Clause, which prevents the government from establishing a religion or favoring any particular faith. Libel law was used against colonists critical of British governance. In England, speech was tightly controlled – a license granted by the government was required to publish and “seditious libel” laws were used to punish anyone who spoke against the government. The protections found within the First Amendment stemmed in part from the founding fathers’ reactions towards life under the British rule. Although its wording specifically prohibits action taken by Congress, the various clauses of the First Amendment have been incorporated through the Due Process Clause of the 14th amendment to apply to the states. This includes the freedom to practice religion, the freedom of speech, and the freedom to associate with others. ![]() Generally, these rights provide for the freedom of citizens’ to hold and express beliefs without interference or retaliation by the government. The First Amendment contains a bundle of unique yet closely related rights. ![]()
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