The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution are crucial for understanding civil rights in the United States. However, the Bill of Rights, which comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution, explicitly enumerates individual rights and protections, including freedom of speech, religion, and the right to due process. It set foundational legal protections against government overreach, ensuring citizens' liberties. Subsequent amendments have expanded these rights to address issues like race and gender discrimination, making the Bill of Rights essential in the ongoing evolution of American civil rights.