Which of these rights is specifically included in the First Amendment?

The First Amendment of the United States Constitution explicitly protects several fundamental rights related to expression and religion. Among these, freedom of speech is a cornerstone of democratic society, allowing individuals to express their thoughts, opinions, and beliefs without government interference. This right ensures that citizens can engage in open discourse, challenge authority, and participate in democratic processes.

While the other options address important rights in the U.S. legal framework, they are not included in the First Amendment. The right to bear arms is addressed in the Second Amendment, the right to a fair trial is outlined in the Sixth Amendment, and protection from cruel and unusual punishment is found in the Eighth Amendment. Each of these rights plays a crucial role in the protection of civil liberties but is not part of the First Amendment's focus on freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition. Thus, freedom of speech stands out as the correct answer, highlighting its significance in safeguarding expression as an essential part of a functioning democracy.