Civil Liberties: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Why is Marijuana Illegal?
Why is marijuana illegal? Find out inside.
Why is marijuana illegal? Find out inside.
Pro-Life vs. Pro-Choice
The pro-life vs pro-choice debate is central to American social policy, religion, and culture. Learn why here.
The pro-life vs pro-choice debate is central to American social policy, religion, and culture. Learn why here.
The Execution of Angel Diaz
The botched lethal injection of Angel Diaz led Florida, and perhaps California and Maryland, to declare moratoria on capital punishment while courts and commissions examine the constitutionality of existing lethal injection protocols.
The botched lethal injection of Angel Diaz led Florida, and perhaps California and Maryland, to declare moratoria on capital punishment while courts and commissions examine the constitutionality of existing lethal injection protocols.
Top 10 Anti-Abortion Myths
A list of ten persistent myths spread by some activists within the anti-abortion movement.
A list of ten persistent myths spread by some activists within the anti-abortion movement.
Defending Same-Sex Marriage
The American Family Association has published ten arguments against same-sex marriage. Unfortunately for the AFA, none of these arguments hold water.
The American Family Association has published ten arguments against same-sex marriage. Unfortunately for the AFA, none of these arguments hold water.
Lethal Injections
A history and description of death by lethal injection procedures.
A history and description of death by lethal injection procedures.
Yes to Gay Marriage
A formidable pro-gay marriage article on legal gay marriage supporting a pro-same sex marriage position in opposition to the Federal Marriage Amendment.
A formidable pro-gay marriage article on legal gay marriage supporting a pro-same sex marriage position in opposition to the Federal Marriage Amendment.
What is Abortion?
What is abortion? Find out here.
What is abortion? Find out here.
American Torture Techniques
The Bush administration has been accused of using "torture-lite," or "moderate physical pressure," against detainees. In practical terms, what are the American torture techniques?
The Bush administration has been accused of using "torture-lite," or "moderate physical pressure," against detainees. In practical terms, what are the American torture techniques?
History of Prostitution
An illustrated timeline documenting the history of prostitution, from ancient Mesopotamia to the present.
An illustrated timeline documenting the history of prostitution, from ancient Mesopotamia to the present.
Flag Burning Laws
Information about laws banning the burning and other desecration of the American flag, Texas v. Johnson, the Flag Protection Act, and the Flag Desecration Amendment.
Information about laws banning the burning and other desecration of the American flag, Texas v. Johnson, the Flag Protection Act, and the Flag Desecration Amendment.
New Gay Marriage States
These states may soon allow legal gay marriages or new gay civil unions. Some of them already allow civil unions but are considering same-sex marriages, while others currently ban both but may soon allow civil unions.
These states may soon allow legal gay marriages or new gay civil unions. Some of them already allow civil unions but are considering same-sex marriages, while others currently ban both but may soon allow civil unions.
The 8 Worst Presidents Ever
The 8 worst presidents ever on civil liberties issues.
The 8 worst presidents ever on civil liberties issues.
Bill of Rights
The Bill of Rights, as we call the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, is the centerpiece of the civil liberties debate in the United States.
The Bill of Rights, as we call the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, is the centerpiece of the civil liberties debate in the United States.
The Atlantic Slave Trade
By the time European explorers began to colonize the New World in the 15th and 16th centuries, African slavery had already been accepted as a fact of life. For centuries, white European culture was built on the idea that when you see a dark-skinned person, her or his primary purpose is to be a subservient laborer. American and European society has only slowly moved away from this dynamic, and as a result we all still live under a disproportionately race-based system of social stratification.
By the time European explorers began to colonize the New World in the 15th and 16th centuries, African slavery had already been accepted as a fact of life. For centuries, white European culture was built on the idea that when you see a dark-skinned person, her or his primary purpose is to be a subservient laborer. American and European society has only slowly moved away from this dynamic, and as a result we all still live under a disproportionately race-based system of social stratification.
The Eighth Amendment
The text, origins, and meaning of Eighth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which protects defendants from cruel and unusual punishment.
The text, origins, and meaning of Eighth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which protects defendants from cruel and unusual punishment.
The Fifth Amendment
The text, origins, and meaning of the Fifth Amendment, which governs confessions and protects property rights, among other things.
The text, origins, and meaning of the Fifth Amendment, which governs confessions and protects property rights, among other things.
Civil Rights Era (1954-1968)
U.S. participation in the international slave trade ended in 1808, but the institution of chattel slavery dragged on in the United States for another 57 years and ended only after a massive and bloody regional civil war.
U.S. participation in the international slave trade ended in 1808, but the institution of chattel slavery dragged on in the United States for another 57 years and ended only after a massive and bloody regional civil war.
The Second Amendment
The text, origins, and meaning of the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which protects the right to bear arms.
The text, origins, and meaning of the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which protects the right to bear arms.
Defining Institutional Racism
Definition of the term "institutional racism."
Definition of the term "institutional racism."
Sodomy Laws
An overview of anti-gay U.S. laws banning sodomy and other forms of "unnatural intercourse."
An overview of anti-gay U.S. laws banning sodomy and other forms of "unnatural intercourse."
Obama on Civil Liberties
An overview of Barack Obama's views on key civil liberties issues.
An overview of Barack Obama's views on key civil liberties issues.
California Marriage Ruling
An explanation of the May 2008 California same-sex marriage ruling.
An explanation of the May 2008 California same-sex marriage ruling.
John McCain on Civil Liberties
A complete illustrated guide to John McCain's positions on key civil liberties issues, including abortion, immigration, and same-sex marriage.
A complete illustrated guide to John McCain's positions on key civil liberties issues, including abortion, immigration, and same-sex marriage.
Why I Support Amnesty
The history of undocumented Mexican-American immigration in the United States shows us why immigrant amnesty is the only fair response.
The history of undocumented Mexican-American immigration in the United States shows us why immigrant amnesty is the only fair response.
Saddam Hussein's War Crimes
An overview of Saddam Hussein's crimes against humanity. From the time of the July 1978 decree condemning his political enemies to his eventual capture, Iraqi president Saddam Hussein was one of the most brutal dictators on Earth.
An overview of Saddam Hussein's crimes against humanity. From the time of the July 1978 decree condemning his political enemies to his eventual capture, Iraqi president Saddam Hussein was one of the most brutal dictators on Earth.
The Ninth Amendment
The text, origins, and meaning of the Ninth Amendment, which protects rights not explicitly specified elsewhere in the Constitution.
The text, origins, and meaning of the Ninth Amendment, which protects rights not explicitly specified elsewhere in the Constitution.
The Bill of Rights: Important?
The importance of the Bill of Rights isn't as obvious as it might first appear.
The importance of the Bill of Rights isn't as obvious as it might first appear.
The Jena Six
A profile of the Jena Six trials.
A profile of the Jena Six trials.
COINTELPRO
The FBI used its COINTELPRO program to monitor hate groups and civil rights organizations alike.
The FBI used its COINTELPRO program to monitor hate groups and civil rights organizations alike.
Current Supreme Court Justices
Profiles of current Supreme Court justices.
Profiles of current Supreme Court justices.
Will Cigarettes Be Banned?
Does Congress have the power to ban cigarettes and, if so, should it exercise that power?
Does Congress have the power to ban cigarettes and, if so, should it exercise that power?
Top 10 Death Penalty Blogs
Looking for blogs on capital punishment, the death penalty, and the Eighth Amendment? Here's a list of ten great ones, including Abolishthe Death Penalty, the Lonely Abolitionist, Project Hope, and more.
Looking for blogs on capital punishment, the death penalty, and the Eighth Amendment? Here's a list of ten great ones, including Abolishthe Death Penalty, the Lonely Abolitionist, Project Hope, and more.
History of Feminism
A history of feminism in the United States. Includes illustrations and links to further resources on specific events.
A history of feminism in the United States. Includes illustrations and links to further resources on specific events.
Does a Fetus Have Rights?
Does the fetus have rights? Yes, up to a point.
Does the fetus have rights? Yes, up to a point.
DC v. Heller (2008)
Explaining the Supreme Court's ruling in the District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) handgun case, the first Supreme Court case since 1939 to deal directly with the Second Amendment.
Explaining the Supreme Court's ruling in the District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) handgun case, the first Supreme Court case since 1939 to deal directly with the Second Amendment.
Abortion Rights
Abortion rights explained from a civil liberties perspective. Includes links to rulings, quotations, and relevant organizations.
Abortion rights explained from a civil liberties perspective. Includes links to rulings, quotations, and relevant organizations.
Top 10 Feminist Blogs
Looking for blogs on feminism, women's rights, and civil liberties? Here's a list of ten great ones, including Feministing, Echidne of the Snakes, the Happy Feminist, and more.
Looking for blogs on feminism, women's rights, and civil liberties? Here's a list of ten great ones, including Feministing, Echidne of the Snakes, the Happy Feminist, and more.
Top 10 Gay Rights Blogs
Looking for blogs on gay rights, LGBT or GLBT rights, gay marriages, civil unions and domestic partnerships, lesbians', gays', bisexuals', and transgender persons' rights, antidiscrimination and nondiscrimination, gay adoptions, and more? Here's a top 10 list, including Good as You, Gay Rights Watch, the Big Gay Picture, and Pam's House Blend.
Looking for blogs on gay rights, LGBT or GLBT rights, gay marriages, civil unions and domestic partnerships, lesbians', gays', bisexuals', and transgender persons' rights, antidiscrimination and nondiscrimination, gay adoptions, and more? Here's a top 10 list, including Good as You, Gay Rights Watch, the Big Gay Picture, and Pam's House Blend.
Supreme Court Cases: 2007-2008
Profiles of key civil liberties cases of the Supreme Court's 2007-2008 term.
Profiles of key civil liberties cases of the Supreme Court's 2007-2008 term.
Bob Barr on Civil Liberties
An overview of Bob Barr's positions on key civil liberties issues.
An overview of Bob Barr's positions on key civil liberties issues.
10 Types of Libertarians
Looking for information on different types of libertarians, including anarcho-capitalists, civil libertarians, classical liberals, fiscal libertarians, geolibertarians, left-libertarians, libertarian socialists, minarchists, neolibertarians, Objectivists, and paleolibertarians? You've come to the right place!
Looking for information on different types of libertarians, including anarcho-capitalists, civil libertarians, classical liberals, fiscal libertarians, geolibertarians, left-libertarians, libertarian socialists, minarchists, neolibertarians, Objectivists, and paleolibertarians? You've come to the right place!
The Sixth Amendment
The text, origins, and meaning of the Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which protects suspects' rights to a jury, to a speedy trial, and to an attorney.
The text, origins, and meaning of the Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which protects suspects' rights to a jury, to a speedy trial, and to an attorney.
A Right to Bear Arms?
Does the Second Amendment protect the right to bear arms? The debate hinges on the meaning of two commas.
Does the Second Amendment protect the right to bear arms? The debate hinges on the meaning of two commas.
The Gay Rights Movement
An illustrated history of the American gay rights movement.
An illustrated history of the American gay rights movement.
Project Echelon
For more than 60 years, Project Echelon has been a mysterious part of our government's intelligence-gathering network.
For more than 60 years, Project Echelon has been a mysterious part of our government's intelligence-gathering network.
Racist Supreme Court Rulings
Ten astonishingly racist Supreme Court rulings.
Ten astonishingly racist Supreme Court rulings.
Slavery in the United States
U.S. participation in the international slave trade ended in 1808, but the institution of chattel slavery dragged on in the United States for another 57 years and ended only after a massive and bloody regional civil war.
U.S. participation in the international slave trade ended in 1808, but the institution of chattel slavery dragged on in the United States for another 57 years and ended only after a massive and bloody regional civil war.
Top News Stories - 8/11
The Council of Europe's Cybercrime Treaty may endanger First and Fourth Amendment rights in the United States.
The Council of Europe's Cybercrime Treaty may endanger First and Fourth Amendment rights in the United States.
What is Waterboarding?
What is waterboarding? Find out here.
What is waterboarding? Find out here.
The Birth of Jim Crow
U.S. participation in the international slave trade ended in 1808, but the institution of chattel slavery dragged on in the United States for another 57 years and ended only after a massive and bloody regional civil war.
U.S. participation in the international slave trade ended in 1808, but the institution of chattel slavery dragged on in the United States for another 57 years and ended only after a massive and bloody regional civil war.
Is Abortion Murder?
Is abortion murder? Some critics of the procedure say yes, but let's examine that a little more carefully.
Is abortion murder? Some critics of the procedure say yes, but let's examine that a little more carefully.
What are civil liberties?
What are civil liberties? From Civil Liberties 101, frequently asked questions (FAQ) about civil rights and civil liberties.
What are civil liberties? From Civil Liberties 101, frequently asked questions (FAQ) about civil rights and civil liberties.
Early Civil Rights Movement
U.S. participation in the international slave trade ended in 1808, but the institution of chattel slavery dragged on in the United States for another 57 years and ended only after a massive and bloody regional civil war.
U.S. participation in the international slave trade ended in 1808, but the institution of chattel slavery dragged on in the United States for another 57 years and ended only after a massive and bloody regional civil war.
Imperial Presidency 101
A profile of the concept of the imperial presidency and the unitary executive theory.
A profile of the concept of the imperial presidency and the unitary executive theory.
Abridged: Roe v. Wade (1973)
Looking for the text of the Supreme Court's ruling in Roe v. Wade (1973), the case that made abortion legal in the United States? Here it is!
Looking for the text of the Supreme Court's ruling in Roe v. Wade (1973), the case that made abortion legal in the United States? Here it is!
Remembering George Carlin
Remembering the life of George Carlin, and its impact on free speech.
Remembering the life of George Carlin, and its impact on free speech.
Civil Liberties 101
Ten frequently asked questions (FAQ) about civil rights and civil liberties. Addresses the meaning of the term "civil liberties," why civil liberties are important, and why even people who don't stand to get arrested anytime soon should care about them. Also deals with the political ramifications of civil liberties, why we have to protect people we can't stand, and how to become an activist.
Ten frequently asked questions (FAQ) about civil rights and civil liberties. Addresses the meaning of the term "civil liberties," why civil liberties are important, and why even people who don't stand to get arrested anytime soon should care about them. Also deals with the political ramifications of civil liberties, why we have to protect people we can't stand, and how to become an activist.
Human Rights in Iran
A human rights profile of the government of Iran, which is guilty of systemic human rights abuses and human rights violations.
A human rights profile of the government of Iran, which is guilty of systemic human rights abuses and human rights violations.
The First Amendment
The First Amendment and its text, origins, and meanings. Includes links to information on specific clauses.
The First Amendment and its text, origins, and meanings. Includes links to information on specific clauses.
Anti-Gay Job Discrimination
Information on workplace discrimination issues affecting lesbians, gay men, and bisexuals.
Information on workplace discrimination issues affecting lesbians, gay men, and bisexuals.
Hamdan v. Rumsfeld (2006)
This Supreme Court decision, Hamdan v. Rumsfeld, covered enemy combatants under the Geneva Conventions.
This Supreme Court decision, Hamdan v. Rumsfeld, covered enemy combatants under the Geneva Conventions.
Top 10 Pro-Choice Quotes
Ten quotes that remind me why I'm pro-choice.
Ten quotes that remind me why I'm pro-choice.
If Roe v. Wade Were Overturned
What would happen if Roe v. Wade were overturned?
What would happen if Roe v. Wade were overturned?
The Military Commissions Act
Understand the Military Commissions Act of 2006, which deals with the treatment of alleged detainees and enemy combatants.
Understand the Military Commissions Act of 2006, which deals with the treatment of alleged detainees and enemy combatants.
Boumediene v. Bush (2008)
Boumediene v. Bush (2008), the U.S. Supreme Court ruling pertaining to the habeas corpus rights of enemy combatants at Guantanamo Bay, explained in a single page.
Boumediene v. Bush (2008), the U.S. Supreme Court ruling pertaining to the habeas corpus rights of enemy combatants at Guantanamo Bay, explained in a single page.
Why is Abortion Legal?
Why is abortion legal in the United States? Tom Head explains.
Why is abortion legal in the United States? Tom Head explains.
Abortion in the Bible
Abortion is addressed indirectly in the Bible. What does the Bible have to say about the procedure?
Abortion is addressed indirectly in the Bible. What does the Bible have to say about the procedure?
Rights of Guantanamo Detainees
A guide to the rights of Guantanamo Bay detainees.
A guide to the rights of Guantanamo Bay detainees.
History of FISA
An illustrated history of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), from its origins to the Bush wiretapping controversy.
An illustrated history of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), from its origins to the Bush wiretapping controversy.
Justice David Souter
A biography of David H. Souter, Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
A biography of David H. Souter, Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
Defining Libertarian
What is a libertarian?
What is a libertarian?
The Trial and Death of Jesus
The trial and death of Jesus Christ, from a civil libertarian's perspective.
The trial and death of Jesus Christ, from a civil libertarian's perspective.
Jefferson on Church and State
Looking for Thomas Jefferson's letter outlining a "wall of separation" of church and state, sent to the Danbury Baptists? Here it is!
Looking for Thomas Jefferson's letter outlining a "wall of separation" of church and state, sent to the Danbury Baptists? Here it is!
Future of Abortion Rights
What the abortion rights debate might be like in 2012.
What the abortion rights debate might be like in 2012.
Gay Adoption Rights
Civil rights issues affecting same-sex couples who are attempting to adopt.
Civil rights issues affecting same-sex couples who are attempting to adopt.
Kelo v. New London (2005)
This controversial Supreme Court eminent domain case, Kelo v. New London, changed eminent domain law in the United States.
This controversial Supreme Court eminent domain case, Kelo v. New London, changed eminent domain law in the United States.
Should We Ban Human Cloning?
Should human cloning be banned? Tom Head weighs the pros and cons.
Should human cloning be banned? Tom Head weighs the pros and cons.
Bill Clinton's Gloomy Legacy
An overview of the Clinton administration's gloomy legacy on some civil liberties issues.
An overview of the Clinton administration's gloomy legacy on some civil liberties issues.
Ignoring the Fourth Amendment
An overview of government surveillance and the Fourth Amendment.
An overview of government surveillance and the Fourth Amendment.
Abortion Legal in Every State?
Is abortion now legal in every state? Tom Head explains.
Is abortion now legal in every state? Tom Head explains.
Civil liberties/civil rights?
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about civil rights and civil liberties.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about civil rights and civil liberties.
Third-Wave Feminism
Third-wave feminism and the future of the feminist movement.
Third-wave feminism and the future of the feminist movement.
Sex and Civil Liberties
An illustrated guide to sex and civil liberties.
An illustrated guide to sex and civil liberties.
Justice John Paul Stevens
A biography of John Paul Stevens, Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
A biography of John Paul Stevens, Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
Human Rights in North Korea
A human rights profile of the government of North Korea, known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), which is guilty of systemic human rights abuses and human rights violations.
A human rights profile of the government of North Korea, known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), which is guilty of systemic human rights abuses and human rights violations.
Racial Discrimination
An illustrated guide to present-day civil rights issues and racial discrimination.
An illustrated guide to present-day civil rights issues and racial discrimination.
Gays in the Military
Information on discrimination against lesbians and gay men who would like to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Information on discrimination against lesbians and gay men who would like to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Big Brother is Watching
An illustrated history of government surveillance programs.
An illustrated history of government surveillance programs.
Manadel al-Jamadi Crucifixion
Manadel al-Jamadi was tortured to death by U.S. interrogators at Abu Ghraib Prison on November 4, 2003.
Manadel al-Jamadi was tortured to death by U.S. interrogators at Abu Ghraib Prison on November 4, 2003.
Georgia v. Randolph (2006)
On March 22nd, 2006, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled by a 5-3 margin in Georgia v. Randolph that the Fourth Amendment gives tenants the authority to refuse to consent to a house search, even if one or more co-tenants has granted permission.
On March 22nd, 2006, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled by a 5-3 margin in Georgia v. Randolph that the Fourth Amendment gives tenants the authority to refuse to consent to a house search, even if one or more co-tenants has granted permission.
Top 10 "Obscene" Classics
Ten great literary classics that were targeted by obscenity trials. Includes James Joyce's "Ulysses," D.H. Lawrence's "Lady Chatterley's Lover," Gustave Flaubert's "Madame Bovary," Arundhati Roy's "The God of Small Things," Allan Ginsberg's "Howl and Other Poems," William S. Burroughs' "Naked Lunch," Henry Miller's "Tropic of Cancer," Radclyffe Hall's "The Well of Loneliness," John Cleland's "Fanny Hill," and more.
Ten great literary classics that were targeted by obscenity trials. Includes James Joyce's "Ulysses," D.H. Lawrence's "Lady Chatterley's Lover," Gustave Flaubert's "Madame Bovary," Arundhati Roy's "The God of Small Things," Allan Ginsberg's "Howl and Other Poems," William S. Burroughs' "Naked Lunch," Henry Miller's "Tropic of Cancer," Radclyffe Hall's "The Well of Loneliness," John Cleland's "Fanny Hill," and more.
Why Call It Same-Sex Marriage?
Why I now use the term "same-sex marriage" instead of "gay marriage" to describe same-sex marriages, and why I believe others in the media industry should follow suit.
Why I now use the term "same-sex marriage" instead of "gay marriage" to describe same-sex marriages, and why I believe others in the media industry should follow suit.
History of Racial Profiling
History of Racial Profiling - An Illustrated History of Racial Profiling in the United States
History of Racial Profiling - An Illustrated History of Racial Profiling in the United States
National Rifle Association
A profile of the National Rifle Association (NRA).
A profile of the National Rifle Association (NRA).
Ornoski v. Belmontes (2007)
The upcoming Ornosi v. Belmontesd (2007) death penalty and rehabilitation case.
The upcoming Ornosi v. Belmontesd (2007) death penalty and rehabilitation case.
Top News Stories - 8/22
Sixteen-year-old Starchild Abraham Cherrix has Hodgkin's disease, but he and his family have opted to pursue alternative therapies rather than chemotherapy. Virginia's Social Services Department stepped in, declaring that the parents' refusal to pursue chemotherapy amounts to neglect, but a judge disagrees and negotiated a consent decree.
Sixteen-year-old Starchild Abraham Cherrix has Hodgkin's disease, but he and his family have opted to pursue alternative therapies rather than chemotherapy. Virginia's Social Services Department stepped in, declaring that the parents' refusal to pursue chemotherapy amounts to neglect, but a judge disagrees and negotiated a consent decree.
Gonzales v. Carhart (2007)
A summary of Gonzales v. Carhart (2007), the "partial birth" abortion case.
A summary of Gonzales v. Carhart (2007), the "partial birth" abortion case.
The Fourth Amendment
The text, origins, and meaning of the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
The text, origins, and meaning of the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
Libertarian Party Platform
The Libertarian Party Platform explained on a single page.
The Libertarian Party Platform explained on a single page.
What Bush Has Done Right
A list of ten things that the Bush administration has done right on civil liberties.
A list of ten things that the Bush administration has done right on civil liberties.
American Torture
An overview of American torture in the War on Terror.
An overview of American torture in the War on Terror.
The Tenth Amendment
The text, origins, and meaning of the Tenth Amendment, which protects states' rights.
The text, origins, and meaning of the Tenth Amendment, which protects states' rights.
Who Wrote the First Amendment?
Who wrote the First Amendment? Find out inside.
Who wrote the First Amendment? Find out inside.
Same-Sex Marriage in New York
An overview of same-sex marriage in New York, with emphasis on Governor David Paterson's May 2008 executive order recognizing same-sex marriages performed in other states.
An overview of same-sex marriage in New York, with emphasis on Governor David Paterson's May 2008 executive order recognizing same-sex marriages performed in other states.
Jourdon Anderson's Letter
Four months after the end of the American Civil War, Colonel P.H. Anderson offered his escaped slave, Jourdon, a "good chance" on the old plantation. This was Jourdon's reply.
Four months after the end of the American Civil War, Colonel P.H. Anderson offered his escaped slave, Jourdon, a "good chance" on the old plantation. This was Jourdon's reply.
History of the Electric Chair
A single-page summary of the electric chair's origins and history.
A single-page summary of the electric chair's origins and history.
Gay Marriage and Civil Unions
Information on gay marriage and civil unions from a civil rights perspective.
Information on gay marriage and civil unions from a civil rights perspective.
The Evolution of American Civil Liberties - A Short Timeline
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Washington, DC Voting Rights
An analysis of the Washington, DC voting rights issue.
An analysis of the Washington, DC voting rights issue.
Gingrich and Free Speech
On November 27th, 2006, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich argued that free speech should not receive the same level of protection in the post-9/11 world that it has in the past.
On November 27th, 2006, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich argued that free speech should not receive the same level of protection in the post-9/11 world that it has in the past.
Women's Rights Issues
An illustrated guide to current women's rights issues.
An illustrated guide to current women's rights issues.
Death Penalty and Christianity
How is the death penalty viewed within Christianity? How have Christian perspectives on capital punishment changed over time?
How is the death penalty viewed within Christianity? How have Christian perspectives on capital punishment changed over time?
John McCain on Abortion
John McCain's platform and voting record on abortion and reproductive rights.
John McCain's platform and voting record on abortion and reproductive rights.
The Civil Rights Backlash
U.S. participation in the international slave trade ended in 1808, but the institution of chattel slavery dragged on in the United States for another 57 years and ended only after a massive and bloody regional civil war.
U.S. participation in the international slave trade ended in 1808, but the institution of chattel slavery dragged on in the United States for another 57 years and ended only after a massive and bloody regional civil war.
Civil Liberties in Mississippi
A short guide to civil liberties in Mississippi.
A short guide to civil liberties in Mississippi.
Justice Anthony Kennedy
A biography of Anthony M. Kennedy, Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
A biography of Anthony M. Kennedy, Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
How to Argue Ineffectively
How to argue your point ineffectively and lose every time.
How to argue your point ineffectively and lose every time.
Justice Antonin Scalia
A biography of Antonin Scalia, Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
A biography of Antonin Scalia, Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
Shirin Ebadi
A profile of Iranian feminist Shirin Ebadi, recipient of the 2003 Nobel Peace Prize.
A profile of Iranian feminist Shirin Ebadi, recipient of the 2003 Nobel Peace Prize.
Justice Stephen Breyer
A biography of Stephen Breyer, Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
A biography of Stephen Breyer, Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
2006 Immigration Bills
In 2006, the U.S. House of Representatives has passed an immigration reform bill, H.R. 4437 (The Border Protection, Antiterrorism, and Illegal Immigration Control Act of 2005), and the U.S. Senate passed its own version, S. 2611 (The Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act of 2006). How do these bills differ?
In 2006, the U.S. House of Representatives has passed an immigration reform bill, H.R. 4437 (The Border Protection, Antiterrorism, and Illegal Immigration Control Act of 2005), and the U.S. Senate passed its own version, S. 2611 (The Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act of 2006). How do these bills differ?
Top News Stories - 8/30
Brooklyn satellite TV dealer Javed Iqbal has been arrested for giving his customers access to the al-Manar news station, which has been tied to Hezbollah. The New York branch of the ACLU has expressed concern, arguing that the arrest violates press freedom.
Brooklyn satellite TV dealer Javed Iqbal has been arrested for giving his customers access to the al-Manar news station, which has been tied to Hezbollah. The New York branch of the ACLU has expressed concern, arguing that the arrest violates press freedom.
American Civil Liberties Union
A profile of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
A profile of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
History of the ACLU: 1920-1950
An illustrated history of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) under the leadership of Roger Nash Baldwin, including his response to the Palmer Raids, the Scopes monkey trial, and the creation of the Japan Civil Liberties Union (JCLU).
An illustrated history of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) under the leadership of Roger Nash Baldwin, including his response to the Palmer Raids, the Scopes monkey trial, and the creation of the Japan Civil Liberties Union (JCLU).
Anti-Gay Hate Crime Prevention
Information on efforts (and non-efforts) to address hate crimes committed on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
Information on efforts (and non-efforts) to address hate crimes committed on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
The Death Penalty Debate
An illustrated guide to the death penalty debate in America.
An illustrated guide to the death penalty debate in America.
Modern Civil Rights Movement
U.S. participation in the international slave trade ended in 1808, but the institution of chattel slavery dragged on in the United States for another 57 years and ended only after a massive and bloody regional civil war.
U.S. participation in the international slave trade ended in 1808, but the institution of chattel slavery dragged on in the United States for another 57 years and ended only after a massive and bloody regional civil war.
Is Feminism Relevant?
Is feminism relevant? Tom Head looks at the question.
Is feminism relevant? Tom Head looks at the question.
Death Penalty in California
Bookmark this page for frequent updates. On December 16th, 2006, U.S. District Court Judge Jeremy Fogel ruled that the state of California may not perform executions until its lethal injection protocols are revised.
Bookmark this page for frequent updates. On December 16th, 2006, U.S. District Court Judge Jeremy Fogel ruled that the state of California may not perform executions until its lethal injection protocols are revised.
Racial Profiling and Terrorism
A guide to racial profiling and terrorism in the War on Terror.
A guide to racial profiling and terrorism in the War on Terror.
Why the Fathers Founded
A look at the ten British civil liberties violations that helped cause the American Revolution.
A look at the ten British civil liberties violations that helped cause the American Revolution.
Gay Marriage in Massachusetts
A profile of the current status of gay marriage in Massachusetts. Updated frequently.
A profile of the current status of gay marriage in Massachusetts. Updated frequently.
Find Activism Jobs
How to find activism jobs in your area.
How to find activism jobs in your area.
Clinton on Civil Liberties
An overview of Hillary Clinton's positions on key civil liberties issues.
An overview of Hillary Clinton's positions on key civil liberties issues.
Washington on Antisemitism
An exchange between President George Washington and Touro Synagogue's warden, Moses Seixas, regarding religious freedom and the place of the Jewish community within Washington's vision of the United States.
An exchange between President George Washington and Touro Synagogue's warden, Moses Seixas, regarding religious freedom and the place of the Jewish community within Washington's vision of the United States.
NAACP
A profile of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
A profile of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
Death Penalty in Florida
Bookmark this page for frequent updates. On December 16th, 2006, Governor Jeb Bush (R-FL) suspended Florida executions following the botched execution of Angel Diaz.
Bookmark this page for frequent updates. On December 16th, 2006, Governor Jeb Bush (R-FL) suspended Florida executions following the botched execution of Angel Diaz.
UCLA Taser Incident
Updated news and detailed analysis dealing with the UCLA campus police's tasering of 23-year-old student Mostafa Tabatabainejad, as well as the subsequent independent investigation.
Updated news and detailed analysis dealing with the UCLA campus police's tasering of 23-year-old student Mostafa Tabatabainejad, as well as the subsequent independent investigation.
Your Favorite Articles of 2006
The top ten articles on About.com Civil Liberties in 2006.
The top ten articles on About.com Civil Liberties in 2006.
The CIA Torture Tapes Scandal
In December 2007, the CIA admitted that it destroyed tapes that critics say would have showed the torture of suspected terrorists Abu Zubaydah and Abd al-Rahim al-Nashiri.
In December 2007, the CIA admitted that it destroyed tapes that critics say would have showed the torture of suspected terrorists Abu Zubaydah and Abd al-Rahim al-Nashiri.
Civil Liberties Organizations
Ten organizations that focus on civil rights and civil liberties issues.
Ten organizations that focus on civil rights and civil liberties issues.
How to Become an Activist
If you're interested in doing more to defend American civil liberties, such as sign petitions, join civil liberties organizations, and volunteer, here are some suggestions.
If you're interested in doing more to defend American civil liberties, such as sign petitions, join civil liberties organizations, and volunteer, here are some suggestions.
Why Laws Exist
A description of the five major reasons why laws exist.
A description of the five major reasons why laws exist.
Why Protest?
Five reasons why protest events aren't a waste of time.
Five reasons why protest events aren't a waste of time.
Al Sharpton
A biographical profile and timeline of the life of Rev. Al Sharpton, prominent civil rights activist and 2004 Democratic presidential candidate.
A biographical profile and timeline of the life of Rev. Al Sharpton, prominent civil rights activist and 2004 Democratic presidential candidate.
Michael Mukasey
A short biography of new attorney general Michael Mukasey.
A short biography of new attorney general Michael Mukasey.
Against Racial Profiling
The top 7 arguments against racial profiling.
The top 7 arguments against racial profiling.
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
A biography of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
A biography of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
Illegal or Undocumented?
Why I use the term "undocumented immigrants" instead of "illegal immigrants," and why I believe others in the media industry should follow suit.
Why I use the term "undocumented immigrants" instead of "illegal immigrants," and why I believe others in the media industry should follow suit.