Lesson Purpose:
The first two clauses in the First Amendment prohibit Congress from making laws regarding the establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise of religion.
The exact meaning of the establishment and free exercise clauses has been a topic of fierce debate. Did the Founders intend to build "a wall of separation between Church and State" as Thomas Jefferson asserted? Or did they merely intend to prevent religious persecution and the establishment of one national religion?
The first two clauses in the First Amendment prohibit Congress from making laws regarding the establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise of religion.
The exact meaning of the establishment and free exercise clauses has been a topic of fierce debate. Did the Founders intend to build "a wall of separation between Church and State" as Thomas Jefferson asserted? Or did they merely intend to prevent religious persecution and the establishment of one national religion?
Important terms and concepts: ( I'll leave you to figure this out )
An interesting Read about what the unofficial establishment of a religion.
- Compelling State Interest
- Established Church
- Establishment clause
- Free Exercise Clause
- Separation of Church and State
An interesting Read about what the unofficial establishment of a religion.