A. We Have a Government of Laws Not Men

Courage Quiz 1 October 5th, 2012

According to the Prologue, Peter Irons used this book as an attempt to “break down some of the myths surrounding the [Supreme] court.”

Those myths are: a. “We have a government of laws not men” b. “Our constitution is color blind, and neither knows nor tolerates classes among citizens.” c. “The Court decides only issues of law, not questions of character.” d. “The court decides cases without reference to politics.”

After the die is rolled, please perform the following tasks.

 First, identify the constitutional issue(s) that were at stake in the case?  Second, explain the constitutional arguments of both sides? Please feel free to use lawyer’s arguments, judge’s opinions, and plaintiff /defendants perspectives. However, make sure you do not just copy quotes down and pass them off as understanding. Explain in your own words.

 Third, what was the Supreme Court’s verdict and why?  Fourth, pick one-two of the myths. Using specific and multiple evidence from the chapter ( background history, justices quotes, court decisions, other stakeholders, events of the day… ) to explain how Peter Irons used this case to “break down” and expose that/those myth (s).

1. Chapter 1: Gobitis v. Minersville School District

2. Chapter 2 Courage: Hirabayashi v. United States

3. Ch 3 J.D. Shelly v. Louis Kraemer

4. Chapter 4: Lloyd Barenblatt v. United States

5. Chapter 5 Daisy Bates v. Little Rock