The significance of the Bill of Rights in U.S. governance lies in its role as a protector of individual rights and liberties against government infringement. Comprising the first ten amendments to the Constitution, it safeguards essential freedoms such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly. This framework is crucial for maintaining a democratic society, as it establishes the boundaries of governmental powers and guarantees citizens their fundamental rights. The Bill of Rights has also inspired subsequent civil rights movements and legal reforms aimed at expanding protections for marginalized groups.