why do we have tonsils

We have tonsils because they are key components of the immune system, acting as the body's first line of defense against pathogens that enter through the mouth or nose. Tonsils contain immune cells that sample incoming bacteria and viruses, initiate immune responses, and produce antibodies to protect against infections. They help trap and recognize germs early, especially in childhood, before the rest of the lymphatic system takes over most of this work.