Can individuals/organizations be held liable for intentional infliction of emotional distress when commenting on matters of public concern? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered this question in 2011.
What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?
Students are guided through a careful reading of Frederick Douglass’ greatest speech in which he both praises the founders and their principles, yet condemns the continued existence of slavery. The Constitution is presented as a “glorious liberty document” which, if properly interpreted, is completely anti-slavery. Douglass delivered this speech on July 5, 1852 at the height of the controversy over the Fugitive Slave law. The speech is generally considered his greatest and one of the greatest speeches of the 19th century. Before you read the speech you can follow links to learn more about Douglass’s life and the evolution of his thought in this period.
Sutton v. United Air Lines (1999)
Can a person’s physical impairment fall under the ADA’s definition of “disability” if it can be corrected? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered this question in 1999.
Thornton v. U.S. (2004)
May police officers legally search a vehicle if the arrestee was stopped by police after exiting the vehicle? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered this question in 2004.
Abraham Lincoln’s Fragment of the Constitution & the Union (1861): The Purpose of the Union
This lesson will examine Abraham Lincoln’s brief but insightful reflection on the importance of the ideal of individual liberty to the constitutional structure and operation of the American union.
Town of Greece v. Galloway (2013)
Did the Town of Greece’s practice of opening board meetings with a prayer violate the First Amendment? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered this question in 2013.
The Sedition Act: Certain Crimes Against the United States
The Sedition Act of 1798 passed during John Adam’s administration by the Federalist Party touched off a lively debate about the right of free speech. It also presented an early test case to the citizens and government of the United States. In times of war or imminent danger, how do you balance the need for security with the rights of individuals? How can partisan politics affect the process of shaping security policies?
Birth of a Nation, the NAACP, and the Balancing of Rights
In this lesson, students learn how The Birth of a Nation reflected and influenced racial attitudes, and they analyze and evaluate the efforts of the NAACP to prohibit showing of the film.
Norman Rockwell, Freedom of Speech—Know It When You See It
This lesson plan highlights the importance of First Amendment rights by examining Norman Rockwell’s painting of The Four Freedoms. Students discover the First Amendment in action as they explore their own community and country through newspapers, art, and role playing.
Twelve Angry Men: Trial by Jury as a Right and as a Political Institution
Twelve Angry Men, originally written for television by Reginald Rose in 1954 and subsequently adapted for stage (1955), film(1957) and television again (1997), effectively conveys the central importance of the right to a jury trial afforded by Article III of the Constitution as well as Amendments V, VI, and XIV.