Using four or more complete sentences, analyze the importance of the First Amendment in the United States.

It's of particularly important interest as of late;

The first amendment is significant for a number of reasons. The primary reason for its importance is that it allows the people of the United States to voice concerns and opinions which may run contrary to contemporary beliefs and which might, in other countries, be prosecuted. Furthermore, this freedom allows for the questioning of government officials which has significant weight as it allows for criticism of current governmental officials and for the criticism of the governmental inner workings as well. However, there are certain restrictions on the First Amendment which are extremely vital such as "harmful speech" which primarily pertains to types of speech which would directly cause harm. Some examples of harmful speech would include yelling "fire" in a crowded place (usually the example follows a crowded theater) or written speech (typically lies) that would cause harm. An example of the latter would be someone forging a signature.