Constitution in the Headlines: Press Cases After World War II

Help your students explore how the Supreme Court reshaped freedom of the press in the post-World War II era with the latest edition of Constitution in the Headlines—featuring a new Constitution Daily blog post, curated primary sources, classroom questions, and hands-on activities you can start using today.

From the creation of the “actual malice” standard in New York Times v. Sullivan (1964) to the Court’s most recent statement on government “jawboning” in National Rifle Association v. Vullo (2024), these cases illuminate how the First Amendment has evolved to protect robust debate, investigative journalism, and the free flow of ideas in a modern democracy.

Spark conversation with these student questions:

• What is the actual malice standard? How does this standard provide broad First Amendment protections of freedom of speech and press?
• Using a Supreme Court case example from the blog post, how would you describe the protections related to prior restraint in the post-World War II era?
• And more!

We hope these materials empower your students to think critically about the First Amendment and the role of a free press in our democracy.

Teaching Tariffs and Constitutional Principles

Help students explore the constitutional questions behind today’s tariff debates as the Supreme Court considers whether President Trump’s tariffs are lawful under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Marcia Coyle’s new Constitution Daily post highlights key moments from oral arguments, including justices’ concerns about whether “regulating importation” can include imposing tariffs and whether reading the statute broadly would sideline Congress’s taxing power.

Pair the blog with the latest We the People podcast episode featuring Samuel Estreicher and John Yoo to guide students in examining separation of powers, delegation, and the president’s foreign-affairs authority. Together, these resources offer a timely way to help students connect economic policy to core constitutional principles.

You’re Invited: Events in November

🗓️ Monthly Virtual Session: Native Americans and the Constitution

Wednesday, November 19 | 6:30-8 p.m. ET

Delve into the comprehensive historical context of Native American history, examining its constitutional implications and their significance. Join us as scholar Gregory Ablavsky dives into stories about Native Americans and their contributions to U.S. constitutional history. Ginnie Holloway, a member of the Center’s Teacher Advisory Board, will lead the practical integration of these vital narratives into educational curricula and instruction.

🗓️ America’s Town Hall: Declaring Independence: Why 1776 Still Matters

Monday, November 24 | Noon ET

Pulitzer Prize–winning historian Edward Larson discusses his newest book, Declaring Independence: Why 1776 Still Matters. This book traces the idea of American independence in one pivotal year—1776—and explores why this year continues to hold significance today. Jeffrey Rosen, president and CEO of the National Constitution Center, moderates.

This program is generously sponsored by Citizen Travelers, the nonpartisan civic engagement initiative of Travelers.

🗓️ Live From the Museum: Abolitionist Heroes

Tuesday, December 2 | Noon-1 p.m. ET

Join us live in Civil War and Reconstruction: The Battle for Freedom and Equality. On December 6, 1865, the 13th Amendment to the Constitution was ratified; it would abolish slavery or involuntary servitude nationwide, except as punishment for a crime. This live student program will look at the heroic abolitionists who fought for decades to end slavery prior to the 13th Amendment and explore the tactics they employed as well as the challenges they faced in their fight for freedom.

🗓️ Monthly Virtual Session: First Amendment

Wednesday, December 17 | 6:30-8 p.m. ET

During this session, participants will learn about the text and history of the First Amendment, and how the First Amendment is considered today. Join us as our scholar examines historical and modern interpretations of the First Amendment. A member of the Center’s teacher network will share classroom-ready resources on the First Amendment and the amendment process.

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About the National Constitution Center’s Educational Resources 

The National Constitution Center provides K-12 curriculum, professional learning, and student programs that make constitutional education engaging and relevant. Learn more at: constitutioncenter.org/education.

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