By By JOHN EBY / Dowagiac Daily News
CASSOPOLIS - Some Constitutional Amendments are better known than others.
While the First Amendment guarantees freedom of religion, speech, press and right to petition, the Second Amendment protects the right to keep and bear arms and the Fourth Amendment regulates search and seizure, the Third Amendment - no soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any home without the consent of the owner nor, in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law - is comparably obscure.
With Constitution Day coming up Sept. 17, Dowagiac attorney Roosevelt Thomas reviewed this remarkably durable document Monday afternoon at Cass District Library for Capt. Samuel Felt Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).
The first 10 Amendments, known as the Bill of Rights, became part of the Constitution on Dec. 15, 1791.
Developed from ideas set forth in the Bible and in ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, the first 10 Amendments guarantee basic freedoms and rights to the people.
The Fifth Amendment concerns due process and self-incrimination.
The Sixth Amendment covers right to a speedy and public trial at which the accused can confront witnesses.
The Seventh Amendment covers trial by jury in civil cases.
The Eighth Amendment provides for bail that is not excessive and guards against cruel and unusual punishment.