Learning Objectives

After reading this chapter, you will be able to do the following:

  • Describe the civil liberties protected by the Constitution, the amendments to it, and the process by which they were incorporated in order to restrict state actions.
  • Explain the first amendment protections granted to religion and political speech.
  • Identify the civil liberties extended to the accused in the Bill of Rights.
  • Trace the efforts to secure civil rights for African Americans.
  • Describe the challenges women faced in securing their civil rights.