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Dec 7, 1215
Abuses by England’s King John
Abuses by England’s King John cause a revolt by nobles, who compel him to recognize rights for both noblemen and ordinary Englishmen. This document, known as the Magna Carta, establishes the principle that no one, including the king or a lawmaker, is above the law, and establishes a framework for future documents such as the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights. -
Religious Freedom
The new Charter of Rhode Island grants religious freedom. -
Eighteen Baptists are jailed in Massachusetts
Eighteen Baptists are jailed in Massachusetts for refusing to pay taxes that support the Congregational church. -
Taxes?
Eighteen Baptists are jailed in Massachusetts for refusing to pay taxes that support the Congregational church. -
Independence Day
The Continental Congress adopts the final draft of the Declaration of Independence on July 4. -
Thomas Jefferson completes his first draft
Thomas Jefferson completes his first draft of a Virginia state bill for religious freedom, which states: “No man shall be compelled to frequent or support any religious worship, place, or ministry whatsoever.” The bill later becomes the famous Virginia Ordinance for Religious Freedom. -
Role of defeating
During Tennessee’s constitutional convention, Andrew Jackson opposes, and plays a prominent role in defeating, a proposal requiring a profession of faith by all officeholders. -
Sedation Act
Congress passes the Sedition Act, which forbids spoken or printed criticism of the U.S. government, the Constitution or the flag. -
No sedation acts anymore
Congress repeals the Sedition Acts. -
Red Flag Law
California repeals its Red Flag Law, ruled unconstitutional in Stromberg. -
Bill of Rights
Georgia, Massachusetts and Connecticut finally ratify the Bill of Rights. -
1943 In National Broadcasting vs. United States
In National Broadcasting Co. v. United States, the U.S. Supreme Court states that no one has a First Amendment right to a radio license or to monopolize a radio frequency.