Scopes Trial

The trial of John Scopes in 1925 centered around his teaching evolution in Tennessee schools in violation of state law. Famous orator William Jennings Bryan and renowned defense attorney Clarence Darrow debated the issue of teaching evolution versus creationism in schools, drawing national media attention. Though found guilty, Scopes' conviction was later overturned on a technicality, but the trial highlighted the ongoing cultural divide on teaching evolution and creationism in public schools.