Charles Schenck

Charles Schenck was a socialist activist in the early 20th century, known for his opposition to the United States' involvement in World War I. In 1917, he distributed leaflets urging resistance to the military draft, claiming it violated the 13th Amendment, which prohibits involuntary servitude. Schenck was arrested and convicted under the Espionage Act. His case went to the Supreme Court in 1919, leading to a landmark ruling that established the "clear and present danger" test, determining that free speech could be limited during times of crisis, especially if it posed a direct threat to national security.