This activity explores the Supreme Court case Buck v. Bell (1927) and its impact on individual rights and government authority. Students will learn how a law allowing forced sterilization of people in state institutions was upheld by the Court, reflecting the influence of eugenics and flawed science at the time. The case highlights how constitutional decisions can harm civil liberties when prejudice shapes the law, and it continues to spark important conversations about human rights, personal freedoms, and the role of the courts in protecting individuals today.
Included in this resource:
Supreme Court Case Spotlight analysis with scaffolding questions
Answer key for teachers (suggested)
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$2.50