Freedom of the Press Under Stress

This post is part of our series on the Bill of Rights. We’re highlighting primary sources selected to help students explore core concepts found within the Bill of Rights, and how they’ve impacted American history. This year marks the 225th anniversary of the ratification of the first 10 amendments to the Constitution, known as the Bill of Rights. The National Archives is commemorating the occasion with … Continue reading Freedom of the Press Under Stress

“Freedom of” or “Freedom From” Religion?

This post is part of our series on the Bill of Rights. We’re highlighting primary sources from our student workbook Putting the Bill of Rights to the Test, that helps students explore core concepts found within the Bill of Rights, and how they’ve impacted American history. This year marks the 225th anniversary of the ratification of the first 10 amendments to the … Continue reading “Freedom of” or “Freedom From” Religion?

Oppressed Women Ask the Government to “Make Amends”

A petition created by Alaska Native women during World War II can help students understand the right of the people to “petition for redress of grievances.”

St. Patrick’s Day Primary Sources

Just for fun — we've got a lineup of St. Patrick's Day-themed primary sources to bring a little shamrock spirit into your classroom this March 17th. The Original Federal Order On 3/16/1780 George Washington’s General Order granted Saint Patrick’s Day as a holiday to the troops. Cartoons 3/17/1918 – On Saint Patrick's Day, cartoonist Clifford Berryman showed a determined Uncle Sam … Continue reading St. Patrick’s Day Primary Sources

Freedom to Cover the World Series

Reporter Melissa Ludtke sued the Commissioner of Baseball to gain access to the locker room, calling out 1st amendment-guaranteed freedom of the press and the 14th amendment's equal protection clause.

Permission to “Take it to the Streets”

The right of the people to peaceably assemble is guaranteed in the Bill of Rights. But what happens when a city requires a group to obtain a permit to do so?