Legal Definitions - civil liberty

Definition: Civil liberty refers to the freedom from undue governmental interference or restraint. This usually refers to freedom of speech or religion.

In American law, civil liberties were established in the Lawes and Libertyes of Massachusetts (1648) and the Bill of Rights (1791). These documents protected the rights of individuals to speak their minds and practice their religion without fear of government punishment.

In English law, civil liberties can be found in Magna Carta (1215), the Petition of Right (1628), and the Bill of Rights (1689). These documents also protected the rights of individuals from government interference.

Overall, civil liberties are important because they allow individuals to express themselves and practice their beliefs without fear of government punishment. This helps to ensure that people can live their lives freely and without undue interference from the government.