The Bill of Rights in the context of the "war" against terrorism

In the context of public discussiones concerning alleged abusive practices against prisoners in the "war" against terrorism, and questioned information gathering practices likewise carried out or advocated by the Bush Administration, such as the retention of suspects without trial outside the territorial limits of the U.S., the first and the sixth amendments to the constitution are appropriate to bear in mind. 

      It should also be pointed out that these amendments were approved in the wake of the struggle of the U.S. colonies against what were considered abusive practices carried out by British colonial authorities.

     "Amendment I: 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."

      "Amendment VI: In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed;which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation;to be confronted with the witnesses against him;to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the assistance of counsel for his defense."