Lesson 4.2: The Warren Court Unit 4: Equality & Power Lesson 4.2: The Warren Court

How did the Warren Court impact civil rights in the United States? Essential Question

What rights would you have if you were ever to be arrested? Activation

The Warren Court refers to the Supreme Court of the United States between 1953 and 1969 when Earl Warren served as Chief Justice. Warren led a liberal majority that used judicial power in dramatic fashion, to the consternation of his opponents. The Warren Court expanded civil rights, civil liberties, judicial powers, and federal power in dramatic ways. The court was both applauded and criticized for bringing an end to racial segregation in the United States, incorporating the Bill of Rights. The period is recognized as a high point in judicial power that has receded ever since, but with a substantial continuing impact. Setting the Stage

Famous Court Cases

Brown v. Board of Education (1954) Linda Brown was denied admission to her local school in Topeka, KS. The case was taken before the Supreme Court where it was decided that separate was NOT equal. It essential struck down Plessy v. Ferguson (separate, but equal), and paved the way for the modern civil rights movement. However, it only applied to public schools. If segregation was unconstitutional here, was it now unconstitutional elsewhere? Brown v. Board of Education (1954)

Established that law enforcement must have a search warrant in order to enter a home and search for belongings. The search warrant must list specifically what law enforcement is looking for. This ruling ensures that law enforcement gather evidence before executing a search warrant. A judge cannot issue a search warrant without reasonable suspicion. Mapp v. Ohio (1961)

When you are arrested, you must be immediately informed that you have the right to remain silent. Knowing the rights that you have when being accused of a crime is a key civil right? Miranda v. Arizona (1966)

A defendant in a state court has the right to a lawyer, regardless of his/her ability to pay. If you cannot afford a lawyer, one will be appointed to you. Gideon v. Wainwright (1963)

You have the right to freedom of speech in schools UNLESS… Your freedom of speech disrupts others ability to learn in a tranquil environment. Remember, other students have the constitutional right to go to school in a peaceful environment. Tinker v. Des Moines (1969)

Decided states could not compose official prayers and required them to be recited in school. Freedom of religion means that one religion cannot be forced on others without their consent. No more prayers could be said over the public speakers at school. Engel v. Vitale (1962)

It is unconstitutional to strip someone of their citizenship if charged with a crime. What could happen to a defendant in court if they are no longer a citizen of the United States? Trop v. Dulles (1958)

Robinson v. California (1962) You cannot be charged as a criminal because you “look” like a drug abuser. Robinson v. California (1962)

Quick Summary Racial segregation: Brown v. Board of Education Voting, redistricting, and malapportionment: Baker v. Carr Criminal procedure: Mapp v. Ohio, Miranda v. Arizona, Gideon v. Wainwright Free speech: Tinker v. Des Moines School District Establishment Clauses: Engel v. Vitale, Abington School District v. Schempp Cruel & unusual punishment: Trop v. Dulles, Robinson v. California Quick Summary

Warren Court Clothes Line Activity

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