BRI's Homework Help: Gideon v. Wainwright
The video, "BRI's Homework Help: Gideon v. Wainwright," explores the pivotal Supreme Court case of 1963 where it was decided that states must provide free legal counsel to indigent defendants charged with serious crimes. This video delves into the story of Clarence Earl Gideon, whose case dramatically changed the American legal system. Lacking proper representation, Gideon was convicted of robbery, but his appeal reached the U.S. Supreme Court, where attorney Abe Fortas championed his Sixth Amendment right to counsel. The Court's unanimous ruling ensured states uphold fair trial standards under the 14th Amendment's due process clause, impacting the rights of defendants nationwide by popularizing the role of public defenders. This landmark decision is essential learning for school-aged children interested in U.S. History, Law, the U.S. Constitution, and Civil Rights, providing a foundation for understanding citizens' rights and the justice system.
Media Details
Runtime: 3 minutes 49 seconds
- Topic: Geography, History, Social Science
- Subtopic: Law, U.S. Constitution, U.S. Geography, U.S. History - 1946-1999
- Grade/Interest Level: 7 - 12
- Release Year: 2021
- Producer/Distributor: Bill of Rights Institute
- Series: BRI's Homework Help
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