Roth v. United States (1957)

In 1957, Roth v. United States redefined the test for obscenity unprotected by the First Amendment. The Supreme Court upheld Roth's conviction and stated that obscenity is not protected by the First Amendment. The decision remains controversial, shaping the definition and prosecution of obscenity in the U.S. and leading to refinement in Miller v. California (1973).

House Un-American Activities Committee

The House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) was a U.S. House committee active during the Cold War, known for investigating alleged communist ties. Its methods and focus were criticized for silencing dissent and distracting from other issues. Notable investigations include the Hollywood Ten, Alger Hiss, and the Rosenbergs, ultimately contributing to a climate of fear and suspicion.