1. The Sedition Act of 1918

2. Feelings on WWI in America Public opinion on the war was very divided. – Many socialists, pacifists, anarchists, women’s groups, unionists, and intellectuals were against the war. – Some believed the war was immoral or being waged to make money. – Some supported the war, especially following the sinking of the Lusitania and the Zimmerman Telegram

3. Entry into the War Wilson wins re-election on anti-war slogan, declares war in April 1917 Establishes the Committee on Public Information, propaganda agency Passes Espionage Act of 1917 and the Sedition Act of 1918 – Suppresses anti-British, pro-German, and anti-war statements – 1,500 people prosecuted and over 1,000 convicted, many for small acts of dissent

6. Anti-War Speech Un-American? First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people to peaceably assemble, and to petition the U.S. government for a redress of grievances. Religion Assembly Press Petition Speech