MONKEY TRIAL

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• John Scopes accused of teaching evolution.
• Violation of Tennessee law that stated "teaching any theory that denies the story of devine creation is not allowed"

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• William Jennings Bryan assisted prosecution.
• Clarence Darrow joined the ACLU** in defense.
• ** American Civil Liberties Union

JULY 10TH, 1925

• Judge destroyed defense stating scientist's testimony on evolution was invalid.
• Darrow attempted to discredit Bryan's interpretation of the bible and Bryan was forced to make ignorant statements.

JULY 21ST, 1925

• Darrow asked to return a verdict of guilty (in hope case will be appealed)
• Bryan was denied closing speech.
• Jury declared Scopes guilty with the minimum fine of $100.

CONT.

• Bryan won case but was public ally humiliated.
• Died five days later on July 26th, 1925.

1927-1928

• United States overturned Monkey Trial verdict, but left constitutional issues unresolved.
• U.S. Supreme Court overturned a similar Arkansas law because it violated First Amendment

The Scopes Monkey Trial affected the way school taught education about science and religion. It also helped separate church and school.