APgov cases for bill of rights quiz

Schenck v. United States (1919)

established the "clear and present danger" test concerning free speech + 1st amendment. The Court ruled that speech may be restricted if it creates a clear and present danger. (anti-war draft leaflet guy)

Engel v. Vitale (1962)

Ruled state-sponsored prayer in public schools unconstitutional, violating the 1st Amendment's Establishment Clause and reinforcing the separation of church and state.

Gideon v. Wainwright (1963)

Established legal representation as a fundamental necessity for a fair trial. Court ruled that the 6th Amendment right to a lawyer applies to states, meaning they must provide free public defenders for poor defendants in serious criminal cases.

Tinker v. Des Moines (1969)

established that students don't lose their free speech rights at school, ruling they can express views unless it "materially and substantially disrupts" school. “tinker test”

New York Times Co. v. United States (1971)

strengthened freedom of the press by establishing a "heavy presumption against prior restraint," meaning the government faces an extremely high bar to stop publication, affirming the press's vital role in checking government power and informing the public.

Wisconsin v. Yoder (1972)

Court ruled that Amish parents could pull their kids from school after 8th grade, protecting their religious freedom (Free Exercise Clause) over the state's interest in mandatory high school education, establishing a precedent for religious exemptions/rights

McDonald v. Chicago (2010)

Court ruled the 2nd Amendment right to keep and bear arms for self-defense applies to states and local governments, extending gun rights nationwide and impacting gun control laws.