The Scopes Trial

The Scopes Trial of 1925 was a famous legal case in Tennessee where John T. Scopes, a high school teacher, was tried for teaching evolution in school, which was against state law at the time. The trial highlighted the conflict between scientific understanding and religious beliefs about creation. It drew national attention, pitting defenders of free scientific inquiry against those advocating traditional biblical views. Although Scopes was found guilty and fined, the case brought increased awareness and debate over the role of religion and science in education, influencing future discussions on academic freedom and the teaching of evolution.