Reynolds v. United States

Reynolds v. United States (1878) is a Supreme Court case that addressed whether religious beliefs can excuse individuals from following generally applicable laws. George Reynolds was convicted of unlawful cohabitation after practicing polygamy, which was part of his Mormon faith. The Court ruled that while religious beliefs are protected, religious practices that violate criminal laws are not. The case established that the government can limit religious practices when they conflict with public laws aimed at maintaining social order. This case clarified the balance between religious freedom and the government's interest in enforcing laws.