This activity explores the Supreme Court case Olmstead v. United States (1928) and its impact on privacy rights and government authority. Students will learn how the Court upheld the use of wiretapped phone conversations without a warrant as evidence, reflecting limited protections for personal privacy at the time. The case highlights how constitutional decisions can affect civil liberties, especially as new technology challenges old laws. Olmstead continues to spark important conversations about surveillance, individual rights, and the evolving role of the courts in protecting personal freedoms in a modern world.
Included in this resource:
Supreme Court Case Spotlight analysis with scaffolding questions
Answer key for teachers (suggested)
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