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Which of the following is a fundamental right protected under the 1st Amendment?

  1. Freedom of speech

  2. Right to privacy

  3. Right to free education

  4. Right to property

The correct answer is: Freedom of speech

The 1st Amendment to the United States Constitution specifically protects several fundamental rights, with freedom of speech being one of the most prominent among them. This amendment ensures that individuals have the right to express themselves without government interference or regulation, which is essential for fostering a democratic society. Freedom of speech encompasses not only spoken words but also other forms of expression, including written communication, symbolic acts, and various media. The protection of this right is vital for the open exchange of ideas, criticism of government actions, and the ability to advocate for change. In contrast, while the right to privacy is recognized in various legal contexts, it is derived from several amendments rather than being explicitly stated in the Constitution. Similarly, the right to free education is not guaranteed by the Constitution; rather, it is established by state laws. The right to property is addressed in the 5th Amendment through the concept of "just compensation" for eminent domain but does not fall under the protections of the 1st Amendment. This context highlights the unique status of freedom of speech as a fundamental right enshrined under the 1st Amendment.