Engel v. Vitale

In 1951, New York's state board of education introduced a nondenominational prayer for students, which was challenged by families in court for violating the First Amendment. Despite initial losses in state courts, the case reached the Supreme Court, which ruled the prayer unconstitutional, reinforcing the separation of church and state. The decision remains controversial, highlighting the ongoing debate over religious activities in public schools.

What was the main reason some families opposed the nondenominational prayer in New York schools?

• It was too long.

• It was not in English.

• It was mandatory for all students.

• It conflicted with their religious beliefs.

What was the outcome of the case in the New York state court system?

• The decision was postponed.

• The case was dismissed.

• The plaintiffs lost in all courts.

• The plaintiffs won in all courts.

Which judge wrote a harsh opinion against the plaintiffs in the New York Court of Appeals?

• Justice Hugo Black

• Chief Judge Charles Desmond

• Justice Felix Frankfurter

• Justice Potter Stewart

What was the Supreme Court's decision regarding the prayer in public schools?

• The prayer was unconstitutional.

• The prayer was constitutional.

• The prayer was mandatory.

• The prayer was optional.

Which justice wrote the majority opinion for the Supreme Court ruling?

• Justice Hugo Black

• Justice Felix Frankfurter

• Justice Potter Stewart

• Justice Byron White