Since the Constitutional Convention in 1787, the definition of “We the People” and the rights guaranteed by the Constitution have gradually expanded. The Bill of Rights and the 13th, 14th, 15th, 17th, 19th, 23rd, 24th and 26th Amendments guarantee essential rights, such as the right to vote, right to a fair trial, freedom of speech, and equal protection of the laws. The Supreme Court and Congress have played major roles in expanding those rights.