Dennis v. United States

By Diegot123

  • Communist Leaders Convicted

    In 1948 11 Communist party leaders were arrested for supporting the overthrow of the US government.

  • No Evidence

    Besides being convicted already there was no evidence stating that the party leaders encouraged thier followers to overthrow the government.

  • Trial Begins

    The trial is presided by Judge Harold Medina and held in Foley Square federal courthouse

  • Oral Arguments are held

    Eugene Dennis, the general secretary, argued that his arrest was a violation of his first amendment rights

  • Case is Decided

    Eugene Dennis’ indictment is upheld by a 6-2 ruling

  • Smith Act

    The final ruling upheld the Smith Act which made it a crime to advocate the violent overthrow of the US government.

  • Smith Act Amended

    In 1957 the Supreme Court amended the Smith Act in Yates v. United States to make parts of it unenforceable.