What does the First Amendment protect?

The First Amendment of the United States Constitution is fundamental to individual rights and liberties, specifically focusing on protecting various aspects of freedom related to expression and assembly. It enshrines the right to freedom of speech, allowing individuals to express their thoughts and opinions without government interference. Additionally, it protects the right to peaceably assemble, which empowers citizens to gather for collective purposes, whether for protests, meetings, or other forms of expression.

This amendment also includes the protections of freedom of religion, allowing individuals to practice their beliefs without government constraint, and the right to petition the government for grievances. However, while these elements are vital parts of the First Amendment, what specifically sets the chosen answer apart is the emphasis on both freedom of speech and the right to peaceably assemble, which are directly spelled out in the First Amendment.

The other options relate to different amendments or rights. The right to bear arms is protected by the Second Amendment, while protections against illegal searches and seizures fall under the Fourth Amendment. Thus, the choice effectively encapsulates the core guarantees provided by the First Amendment, making it the most accurate answer.