Equality

Vocabulary Suspect classification-a questionable

classification based on race or national origin.

Separate but Equal- a doctrine established in Plessy v. Ferguson upholding segregation as long as public facilities were equal.

Jim Crow laws--state legislation in the South that gave official support to segregation.

De facto segregation - exists not by law, but in fact.

Ex: Citizens in different neighborhoods will attend different schools.

Equal Protection Clause Requires states to apply the law the

same to every individual in the same circumstances.

First time civil rights protections were enforced in states by the federal government.

Reasonable Distinction

When is it reasonable to distinguish between groups of people?

Three Tests for Distinction Rational Basis Test - Can be used to

accomplish a LEGITIMATE goal of government.

Ex: In most states the driving age is 16 or older. Why?

Intermediate Scrutiny Test - the government must show an important reason for treating people differently.

Ex: Only men are required to register for Selective Service

Strict Scrutiny Test- Applied when a fundamental right is being restricted or classification is based on race or ethnicity (suspect classification).

Government needs to show a “compelling reason”.

Korematsu v. United States

Segregation Dred Scott (1857)- Denied African

Americans U.S. citizenship even if they were citizens of a state.

Plessy v. Ferguson (1896)- Legally sanctioned racial discrimination.

Brown v. Board of Ed (1954) - outlawed segregation in public schools.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D2XHob_nVbw