The 1920's: The Impact of the Scopes Trial

The Scopes "Monkey" Trial

And Its Effects On Religion, Society, and Education

The Scopes Trial was a monumentally important event in American history

Some effects were short-term, some were long-term

The major effect this court case had on religion in America, was that it pointed out the blatant refusal by many States (particularly in the South) to follow the guideline of "Separation of Church and State" set by the Founding Fathers. While they believed they were doing what was best, they were infringing upon the rights of everyone who did not hold the same beliefs as them (for example, Scopes' belief that evolution should be allowed to be taught in schools).

Another religious repercussion the Scopes Trial had was the fact that, even to this very day, those who hold the fundamental belief system of their religions (especially Christianity) protest and heatedly debate over evolution being taught in public schools, when creationism is not allowed to be taught in science courses. The mere fact that the way students should be taught in science, and what should be taught in public school courses, is still a hot topic in today's day and age shows how large and important the Scopes case was in the minds of the American people.

A large, immediate effect of the Scopes Trial was how quickly it captured, not only America's, but the whole world's interest. As recorded, the courtroom was full of various recording equipment (it was the first trial broadcast in American history), and many flocked to the town to witness it. This all proves just how important this case was, as it held the attention of the world completely for its duration, and for some time afterward. It especially brought everyone in America into one mindset for a period of time, effecting the way society functioned for a short while.

Also, in H. L. Mencken's article "The Scopes Trial: Aftermath," he states how, while it may be the right of every person to hold the beliefs/religion/superstitions they may choose for themselves, they have NO right to force their own viewpoints and beliefs onto others, as that infringes upon their right to have different beliefs (Mencken 451). This pointed out to the American public the unconstitutional actions of the fundamentalist South, and many realized it was time for, at least a small, change.

The effect the Scopes Trial had on education in America is clear. Before the trial, it was the commonly held belief that evolution should not be taught in the public school system (particularly in the South) because of its undermining of the religious concept of creation. This famous court case was really the first time anyone had publicly second-guessed their deeply held fundamental beliefs (such as the prosecuting attorney, William Jennings Bryan). With the events that unfolded in this case, the thought of allowing the teaching of evolution and abolishing the laws that made it illegal became more reasonable to the public and the government. While it may have taken several decades in some states to reach this point, the seed of the thought that all people have different beliefs, and that should be respected, was sewn with the infamous Scopes Trial.

Effect on Education

Effects on Society

Effects on Religion