How did the Charles Schenck impact the U.S. freedom of speech?

A man decides it would be fun to play a practical joke at the Superbowl. Just as the game is starting he starts to scream that there is a bomb under his seat. The crowd becomes frantic and runs out of the stadium. There was no bomb, but 5 people were injured while leaving. What should happen to the man?

During the war in Iraq a group of protestors stands in front of the White House and burns an American flag while holding signs saying “This war is President Bush’s fault!” and “Bush murdered millions!” They scream their slogans as groups enter the White House but do not physically stop anyone from entering. They stay in front of the White House for 6 hours. What should happen to this group?

1st Amendment Freedom of speech Freedom of religion Freedom of the press Peacefully assemble (come together) and petition

WWI Most Americans supported the war effort A small number of citizens openly protested American involvement To protect the security of the nation, some of these people were arrested and jailed. People saw this as a violation of Constitutional freedoms.

The Draft Issue 2 million Americans volunteered to join the military More men needed- draft was necessary Selective Service Act Men 18-45 had to register for military service 3 million drafted Few Americans openly opposed the draft as unconstitutional Government restricted and arrested these individuals

Espionage and Sedition Acts Espionage Act (1917) Prevented opponents from using the mail Sedition Acts (1918) Sent people to jail who disrupted the war effort and used “disloyal language” Critics of the war claimed this unconstitutional (unlawful) Supporters of the war questioned these acts

Schenck v. the U.S. 1919 Printed and mailed pamphlets criticizing the draft Arrested Government said he was encouraging people to break the law

Outcome of Scheckk v. U.S. Schenck appeal to Supreme Court Argued the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution grants everyone freedom of speech and that he was denied his rights. “Clear and present danger” to the security of the U.S. CONSITUTIONAL RIGHTS ARE NOT ABSOLUTE!

Example of Clear and Present Danger: Shout “fire” in a crowded theater when there is no fire because such an action would pose a clear and present danger to public safety (Everyone would run out of theater hysterical, which may cause someone to get injured.

ACTVITY: After learning about the court case, Schenck v ACTVITY: After learning about the court case, Schenck v. the United States and the Supreme Court’s ruling, write a speech or create a poster arguing if you agree with the ruling. Be sure to EXPLAIN why you agree or disagree and use KEY WORDS: First Amendment, Freedom of Speech, “Clear and Present Danger”, Espionage Act, Sedition Act. EXCELLENT Chooses to write a speech or create poster. Argues a side Uses relevant information in the activity that demonstrates a clear and detailed understanding of the Schenck v. United States and connects to their argument. Uses key words that connect to the student’s argument. Product is creative, accurate, and complete. GOOD Uses relevant information in the activity that demonstrates a clear and somewhat detailed understanding of the Schenck v. United States and connects to their argument. Uses keywords that connect to the student’s argument. Product is complete and creative. SATISFACTORY Does not take a position or takes a position, but does not explain it clearly. Not enough details and information on the court case Schenck v. United States and/or information does not connect to his/her argument. Uses one key word and/or two key words, but does not display a clear understanding of the definition.