When Faith, Science, and Politics Collide
The republic's Christian founders emphasized that no faith should have a privileged position in America, and religion should not interfere with government workings.
A century ago, the "Monkey Trial" took place in Dayton, Tennessee, where local high school science instructor John T. Scopes, 24, was accused of violating a new Tennessee law against teaching Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.
Courts have drawn conclusions based on the interpretation of facts and data, as seen in the Scopes trial, where defense lawyer Clarence Darrow questioned William Jennings Bryan about the Bible.
The "monkey trial" continues to haunt us.
Journalists and spectators flocked to witness the trial, including H.L. Mencken, who memorably described it as the "monkey trial."
Author's summary: Faith and science collide in America.
- Key figures: John T. Scopes, Clarence Darrow, William Jennings Bryan, H.L. Mencken, Charles Darwin
- Key events: Scopes "Monkey Trial" in Dayton, Tennessee