West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette (1943) upheld individual rights, especially freedom of expression, amidst compulsory patriotism. The case involved Jehovah's Witnesses refusing to salute the flag due to religious beliefs. The Supreme Court ruled in their favor, establishing the precedent that the state cannot compel patriotic expression, highlighting the importance of defending minority beliefs and promoting tolerance.
supreme court
Minersville School District v. Gobitis (1940)
Minersville School District v. Gobitis (1940) saw the Supreme Court ruling that public school students could be forced to salute the flag. The case, reversed in West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette (1943), was brought by Jehovah's Witness students expelled for refusing to comply. This landmark decision reaffirmed the principle that the government cannot compel speech.
Greg C. Miller, Author 