Founders Intended America to be a 'Christian Nation'?

The First Amendment Center in Washington, DC recently released "State of the First Amendment 2007," a report on what Americans think and feel about their First Amendment rights.

Findings from this year's survey include:

* 65% believe the nation's founders intended for the US to be a Christian nation
* 55% of Americans believe the Constitution establishes a Christian nation
* only 56% believe freedom of worship extends to all religious groups

While virtually all Americans surveyed highly valued the freedoms granted by the First Amendment, few could name all five.

So, what are they?

First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution (1791):

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."

To learn more, visit the First Amendment Center and the National Constitution Center. Numerous books and articles can also be found at the library.

Keywords: Constitution, Bill of Rights, Amendments, Freedom of Expression, Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Religion, Freedom of the Press, Freedom to Assemble, Freedom to Petition the Government

Russ H.