Should freedom of the press be limited to protect national security? Every American citizen has their own rights and privileges, dating back to 1787, when the American Constitution was born. . It is the first legal document setting out the rights of citizens. Four years later, in 1791, the First Amendment was passed, affirming several rights of American citizens, including freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of religion, freedom of speech, right to petition and the right of assembly. Over the years, these rights have been modified to meet current standards. Although they are meant to benefit citizens, some of these freedoms are controversial. For example, many people constantly debate whether freedom of the press should be limited to protect national security. The First Amendment, which spells out the freedoms of American citizens, states that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting liberty.” its exercise; or restrict freedom of expression or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances” (Fiorina). Freedom of the press, a right outlined in the First Amendment, “protects the right to obtain and publish information or opinions without government censorship or fear of punishment…applies to all types of printed and broadcast materials, including books, newspapers, magazines, brochures. , films and radio and television programs” (Liberté...). This amendment, adopted by the Bill of Rights in 1791, has had a unique history and has evolved greatly over time. As noted, freedom was given to let citizens write about whatever they wanted. However, the Alien and Sedition Act of 1798 had an impact on the middle of paper......4.Fiorina, Morris P., Paul E. Peterson, Bertram Johnson, and William G. Mayer. “The Media.” The new American democracy. 6th ed. Flight. 3. Np: Pearson, 2011. 142-43.Print.Forte, Maximillian. "7 reasons why we should celebrate Wikileaks, and 8 reasons why it's not the panacea some call it." Alternet. Alternet, August 3. 2010. Internet. May 15, 2014. “Freedom of expression and freedom of the press.” Lincoln. Lincoln, nd Web. May 10, 2014. Meek, James Gordon, Luis Martinez and Alexander Mallin. "Intel Chiefs: EdwardSnowden Caused 'Profound Damage' to U.S. Security." ABC News. ABC NewsNetwork, January 29, 2014. Web. May 15, 2014. Siegel, Paul. "National Security: Republican versus Democratic Views." Watch Blog. Archives of Democrats and Liberals, February 9, 2006. Web May 14, 2014. “Vietnam War – The Impact of the Media” YouTube, May 27, 2007. 2014.