High School Constitution Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

An unalienable right refers to a fundamental right that cannot be surrendered or transferred. The phrase "Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" is prominently featured in the Declaration of Independence, indicating that these rights are inherent to all individuals and cannot be taken away by government or legislation. This reflects the Enlightenment ideas of natural rights, which emphasize that such rights are endowed to individuals by their creator and are essential for human dignity and freedom.

The other options, while important rights, do not fall under the classification of unalienable rights in the same way. The right to bear arms is articulated in the Second Amendment but is subject to regulation. The right to a speedy trial is a legal right found in the Sixth Amendment, again subject to law and judicial interpretation. Freedom of speech is a guaranteed right under the First Amendment but can also be limited under certain circumstances such as speech inciting violence or threats. Therefore, while all these options represent significant rights within the U.S. constitutional framework, "Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" stands out as the quintessential unalienable right.