| − | *“The Conventions of a number of the States having at the time of their adopting the [[Constitution]], expressed a desire, in order '''to prevent misconstruction or abuse of its powers''', that further '''declaratory and restrictive clauses''' should be added: And as extending the ground of public confidence in the Government, will best insure the beneficent ends of its institution.”<br />(NOTE: This means the Bill of Rights is not a ''grant'' of rights, but a ''prohibition'' against government infringement. It also means the Bill of Rights takes precedence over the main body of the Constitution.)<br />-- Preamble to the [[Bill of Rights]] | + | *“The Conventions of a number of the States having at the time of their adopting the [[Constitution]], expressed a desire, in order '''to prevent misconstruction or abuse of its powers''', that further '''declaratory and restrictive clauses''' should be added: And as extending the ground of public confidence in the Government, will best insure the beneficent ends of its institution.”<br />-- Preamble to the [[Bill of Rights]]<br />(NOTE: This means the Bill of Rights is not a ''grant'' of rights, but a ''prohibition'' against government infringement. It also means the Bill of Rights takes precedence over the main body of the Constitution.)</blockquote> |