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What rights do I have? Debate Comparison Header Image
Debate Comparison

Defining Free Expression Rights

Americans have long debated how to best preserve individual freedoms. The Founding Fathers decided to add these liberties to the text of the U.S. Constitution, but that didn't end arguments about how to define them. Social media innovations such as Facebook "likes" raise new questions about what counts as speech.

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Duration
60-90 minutes
Topic(s)
  • American Revolution
  • Constitution
  • Current Events
  • Elections
  • Politics
Grade(s)
  • 7-12
  • College/University

You're Exploring Free Speech Essentials

What rights do I have?

HISTORICAL ORIGINS
Federalism Case Study Teaser
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1788: Founders Debate How to Protect Freedoms

Following the Constitutional Convention, Federalists and Antifederalists debate whether states should accept this new form of government without a bill of rights.

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CONTEMPORARY CONSIDERATIONS

2009: Defining Speech in the Age of Social Media

A sheriff's deputy is fired after liking the Facebook posts of his boss's rival during an election in 2009. The man sues, saying his freedom of speech was violated.

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