The Bill of Rights is one of the most influential documents in American history. These ten amendments safeguard the basic rights that every American has. The First Amendment protects Americans' right to speak freely, assemble peacefully, and practice their own religions, and for journalists to write any story they choose. This book delves into the history of the amendment, from its conception to its writers, why it was written, and why it is still...

"The First Amendment of the US Constitution states that all people have the right to freedom of the speech and the press. This means citizens can speak, write, and publish freely. But there are limits to these rights. People continue to debate what types of speech are protected by the First Amendment. Freedom of Speech and the Press explores these rights, looking at how our understanding of these freedoms continues to change"--

Discusses the 1st Amendment right to free speech, with particular emphasis on defining and limiting dangerous speech, obscene expression, and the freedom of the press.

Describes the case of Reno v. ACLU including each side's claims, the outcome, and excerpts from the Supreme Court justices' decisions.

Describes the landmark Supreme Court case of Tinker v. Des Moines, which involved student protests in schools, and includes the events leading up to the case, the Supreme Court's ruling, and how it affected future cases and the history of the United States.

Offers opposing viewpoints on the legality of hate speech, covering such topics as distinguishing it from free speech, whether or not it should be criminalized, and if it is protected under the First Amendment.