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Introduction
While most Americans
supported U.S. entry into World War I, there was also considerable
opposition. Most of this opposition came pacifist and radical
groups. Although the first Amendment to the constitution protects a
citizens freedom of speech and press, opponents of World War I were often
arrested for expressing their views.
Task
1. Using the
internet, you will research opposition to U.S. involvement in World War
I. Visit the sites provided, read both primary and secondary sources,
and answer the questions.
2. Using TIPS, complete the case Schenck vs. the
United States.
3. Write a persuasive essay (2-3 pages) arguing
your position on the following question: "Does the government
have the right to limit civil liberties during times of war?"
Process
I. Answer the following questions
using the internet link provided.
1. What does the First Amendment say about
freedom of expression?
Bill
of Rights
2. Pacifists believe that all forms of warfare
are wrong. What explanation do they
give for their views?
Pacifists
3. Eugene V. Debs was a leader of the Socialist
party. Read paragraphs 46-51 of his
Canton speech of June 16, 1918. Why were
socialist opposed to World War I?
Eugene
V. Debs
4. Emma Goldman was a famous anarchist. Why
was she opposed to World War I and conscription (the draft)?
Emma
Goldman
5. Why did the U.S. Government feel that
opposition to the war was unacceptable?
U.S.
Government View
6. How did the espionage and sedition Acts
restrict civil liberties during World War I.
Espionage and
Sedition Act
- Charles Schenck, a secretary of the Socialist
Party, was arrested for the distribution of leaflets opposing the
draft during World War I. His case was heard by the Supreme
Court in 1919. Study the case of Schenk vs. the United States
and answer the questions on the website.
Conclusion
Freedom of
expression has always been a controversial issue in the United
States. Do we have the right to say anything we want, any time we
want? Does the government have the right to limit our freedom of
expression? Now that you have studied the history of freedom of
speech and press during World War I, write a persuasive essay (2-3 pages)
arguing your position on the following question: "Does the
government have the right to limit civil liberties during times of war?"
Be sure to include specific information you have learned form this unit.
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