All Flashcards
Main ideas of the Declaration of Independence?
Natural rights, government protects rights, independence from Britain.
Main ideas of 'Letter from Birmingham Jail'?
Advocates nonviolent protest to end segregation and achieve equality.
Define civil liberties.
Protections from government interference.
Define civil rights.
Protections against discrimination.
What is selective incorporation?
Applying the Bill of Rights to states via the 14th Amendment.
Define symbolic speech.
Nonverbal expression protected by the First Amendment.
Define prior restraint.
Government censorship of publications.
What is the Establishment Clause?
Prohibits government-sponsored religion.
What is the Free Exercise Clause?
Protects the right to practice religion.
What is the Exclusionary Rule?
Illegally obtained evidence cannot be used in trial.
Define affirmative action.
Programs aiding groups facing past discrimination.
What is 'clear and present danger'?
Speech limitation if it causes immediate danger.
Significance of Tinker v. Des Moines?
Protects symbolic speech in schools if no substantial disruption.
Significance of Schenck v. US?
Speech limited if it poses a 'clear and present danger'.
Significance of Engel v. Vitale?
School-sponsored prayer is unconstitutional, violates Establishment Clause.
Significance of Wisconsin v. Yoder?
Free Exercise Clause protects religious practices if no compelling government interest.
Significance of New York Times v. US?
Ruled against prior restraint; press can publish unless direct threat.
Significance of McDonald v. Chicago?
Incorporated the Second Amendment to states, limiting gun restrictions.
Significance of Gideon v. Wainwright?
Guarantees right to an attorney in all criminal cases, incorporated.
Significance of Brown v. Board of Education?
Overturned 'separate but equal'; segregated schools unconstitutional.
Significance of Miranda v. Arizona?
Informed of rights before questioning (remain silent, attorney).
Significance of Mapp v. Ohio?
Established the Exclusionary Rule; illegally obtained evidence inadmissible.