How does the First Amendment protect freedom of speech?

The First Amendment protects freedom of speech primarily by prohibiting Congress from making laws that infringe on the freedom of speech, the press, and the right to peacefully assemble. This framework establishes a fundamental protection for individual expression and serves as a safeguard against government censorship or repression of ideas.

The emphasis on Congress reflects the Founders' concern about federal government overreach, ensuring that citizens have the right to express their opinions without fear of punitive actions by Congress. This protection extends to various forms of expression, enabling a diverse and free exchange of ideas, which is essential in a democratic society.

While the protections provided by the First Amendment have been interpreted to apply broadly, with subsequent interpretations extending some protections to the states through the Fourteenth Amendment, the core principle is rooted in the limitations placed on Congress. Thus, the correct answer encapsulates the primary intention of the First Amendment regarding the regulation of speech.