The Amendments
The First and Second Amendments
The First Amendment Rap
The People have Rights Too
The Congress cannot make a law about religion, or about how to worship. Congress may not make a law about the what people can say or what the press can say. The people can also assemble anywhere at anytime they want. The people can also petition against the current government.
The Freedom of Speech
Explanation
Historical Usage
Charles Schenck was the Secretary of the Socialist party for america and was responsible for military papers during World War I, also 15,000 leaflets that opposite to the draft. These leaflets contained statements such as; "Do not submit to intimidation", "Assert your rights", "If you do not assert and support your rights, you are helping to deny or disparage rights which it is the solemn duty of all citizens and residents of the United States to retain," this is prohibited by the thirteenth amendment.
Current Use
A First Amendment case in the Supreme Court. Three defendants were convicted in violating a statue against cross burning. In this case, the Court said that statute is considered cross burning. Court argued about "threats of intimidation" and the Ku Klux Klan protected "messages of shared ideology." Cross-burning can be a crime.
Opinion
Explanation of the Cartoon
Freedom of Assembly
Explanation
Historical Usage
The Ku Klux Klan raided a peaceful meeting of free black americans. This violates the freedom of assembly. 100 to 280 black americans were killed when they were prisoner. Only three of the Ku Klux Klan were killed in the following days after the killing.
Current Use
Boos v. Barry
People peacefully protested but it was considered bad because the sign said bad things. This was not a form of violent protest but the assembly was intended for worse.
Opinion
Explaining the cartoon
Freedom of the Press
Explanation
A historical use
Current Use
Sopa and Pipa wanted to censor the internet and the press to make more money by suing more. The more they sue the more money they make but, this is against the 1st amendment though.