Podcasts about Scopes Trial

Guest: Brenda Wineapple. In 1925, the Tennessee legislature passed the Butler Act, banning the teaching of evolution in public schools. At Robinson's drugstore in Dayton, local booster George Rapier and others recruited 24-year-old science teacher John Scopes to violate the law as a test case to generate publicity for the town. Although Scopes was knowingly guilty, the ACLU backed the defense to challenge the law's constitutionality regarding the separation of church and state.1925 SCOPES TRIAL, DAYTON, TENN

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY Guest: Brenda Wineapple. Wineapple details the 1925 Scopes trial preparations, where the ACLU sought a defense attorney for John Scopes. Notorious lawyer Clarence Darrow volunteered his services pro bono, feeling called to battle against the "bigotry and fanatics" of the Butler Act and to oppose prosecution leader William Jennings Bryan1925 MAIN STREET, DAYTON TENN.

This week, we're diving into the 100th anniversary of the Scopes Trial, where science clashed with faith in a courtroom spectacle that still echoes today, and a Masonic perspective on balancing gratitude with ambition to build a stronger brotherhood. Links: Scopes' Trial https://www.sciencenews.org/article/scopes-trial-anniversary-science-attack Examining Virtues: Gratitude and Ambition https://bloguniversalfreemasonry.wordpress.com/2024/11/13/examining-virtue-gratitude-and-ambition/ The Etsy Store https://www.etsy.com/shop/WCYSkullCrown Skull and Crown Ltd. www.skullandcrownltd.com Craftsman+ FB Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/craftsmanplus/ WCY Podcast YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/c/WhenceCameYou Ancient Modern Initiation: Special Edition http://www.wcypodcast.com/the-Shop The Master's Word- A Short Treatise on the Word, the Light, and the Self - Autographed https://wcypodcast.com/the-shop Get the new book! How to Charter a Lodge: https://wcypodcast.com/the-shop Truth Quantum https://truthquantum.com Our Patreon www.patreon.com/wcypodcast Support the show on PayPal https://wcypodcast.com/support-the-show Get some swag! https://wcypodcast.com/the-shop Get the book! http://a.co/5rtYr2r

In this episode of the Arizona Civics Podcast, host Liz Evans is joined by Dr. Tim Hall, educator and founder of Religion Matters, for a thoughtful conversation on religious literacy—what it is, why it matters, and how it can be taught responsibly in public schools.Dr. Hall explains how religious literacy helps students better understand history, civic life, global affairs, and one another in a pluralistic democracy. The conversation explores constitutional guardrails, classroom strategies, and trusted resources for educators who want to approach religion academically, not devotionally.What You'll LearnWhat religious literacy means in a public school contextWhy religion is essential to understanding history, civics, and global issuesHow religious literacy supports global competence and civic engagementConstitutional guidelines for teaching about religion in K–12 classroomsThe Six-Point Framework and the “lived religion” approachWhy the Scopes Trial still matters nearly 100 years laterTrusted, classroom-ready resources for educatorsResources & Links Mentioned in the EpisodeCore Religious Literacy & Civics ResourcesNational Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) – Religious Studies Companion to the C3 Framework https://www.socialstudies.orgFirst Amendment Center – Guidelines for Teaching About Religion https://www.freedomforum.orgAmerican Academy of Religion (AAR) – Definition of Religious Literacy https://www.aarweb.orgPew Research Center – Religion & Public Life https://www.pewresearch.org/religionTeaching & Curriculum ResourcesTanbaum Center for Interreligious Understanding https://tanbaumcenter.orgHarvard Divinity School – Religion and Public Life https://rpl.hds.harvard.eduReligion & Education Collaborative https://religionandeducationcollaborative.orgReligion Matters (Dr. Tim Hall) https://religionmatters.orgGlobal Competence ResourcesWorld Savvy https://www.worldsavvy.orgAsia Society – Center for Global Education https://asiasociety.org/educationProject Zero (Harvard Graduate School of Education) https://pz.harvard.eduHistorical & Civic ReferencesThe Scopes Trial (1925) – Religion, science, and public educationDeclaration of Independence – Religious influences on the FoundersFirst Amendment Religion Cases – Including cases related to the Pledge of Allegiance The Arizona Constitution ProjectCheck Out Our Free Lessons on Arizona History and Government!Follow us on:TwitterLinked InInstagramFacebookYouTubeWebsiteInterested in a Master's Degree? Check out the School of Civic and Economic Leadership's Master's in Classical Liberal Education and Leadership

In this week's special elections, a Democrat got elected mayor of Miami for the first time in almost 30 years — by a 19-point margin; and, even Trump country in Georgia is not safe from Democratic wins – Harold Meyerson comments.Also: How did we end up with Trump back in the White House? We got here in part because Republicans built a movement over several decades centered on what are called “the culture wars.” But there's a long history behind the culture wars, going back at least a century to the Scopes Trial, in 1925, about teaching evolution. It's still an issue today. Adam Hochschild is on the show to explain. (First recorded February 18, 2025)

This study presents a historical and theological defense of the original meaning of 'fundamentalism' as a commitment to core Christian doctrines—such as biblical inerrancy, the virgin birth, substitutionary atonement, bodily resurrection, and the reality of miracles—emerging in response to 19th- and early 20th-century challenges from liberal theology, Darwinian evolution, and the social gospel. It traces the movement's origins to the 1910–1915 'Fundamentals' series, which sought to preserve orthodox faith amid rising skepticism, while highlighting how the term became tarnished by the Scopes Trial and later co-opted by cultural caricatures. The preacher warns against modernist tendencies in contemporary Christianity, including moralistic preaching, cafeteria-style belief, and the rise of 'moral therapeutic deism,' which reduce faith to ethical behavior and personal well-being rather than doctrinal truth. Ultimately, the sermon calls the congregation to reclaim the original, biblically grounded meaning of fundamentalism—not as rigid dogmatism, but as a faithful, intellectually engaged, and theologically robust commitment to the gospel, urging believers to reject both intellectual arrogance and anti-intellectualism in favor of a balanced orthodoxy and orthopraxy.

In this week's conversation between Dr. James Emery White and co-host Alexis Drye, they discuss the 50th anniversary of Willow Creek Community Church. In 1975, a young leader named Bill Hybels founded this suburban church in South Barrington, just outside of Chicago. What made it such an outlier were really two things: it had a strong entrepreneurial, outside-of-the-box mentality, and it had a passion to do whatever it took to reach lost people. They became one of the fastest growing churches in the nation and went on to found the Willow Creek Association. While they have had a very rocky road of late, what God did through Willow Creek Community Church can not be ignored. Episode Links As Alexis mentioned at the start of the podcast, we've seemingly had a run of anniversary episodes. In case you missed the ones she mentioned, we'd encourage you to check out CCP165: On the Nicene Creed and CCP167: On the 100th Anniversary of the Scopes Trial. There are two articles that might be of interest to you related to Willow Creek Bob Smietana, “As Willow Creek Turns 50, the Onetime 'Church of the Future' Redefines Success,” Religion News Service, October 8, 2025. Laura Barringer, “Did Willow Creek Skip Yom Kippur — Again?,” The Roys Report, October 10, 2025. And finally, as the conversation eventually turned to the downfall of Bill Hybels, there are a few past podcast episodes that would be worth listening to if you missed them: CCP4: On Pastors and Moral Failings, CCP31: On Celebrity Pastors and CCP40: On Criticism of Mega Churches. For those of you who are new to Church & Culture, we'd love to invite you to subscribe (for free of course) to the twice-weekly Church & Culture blog and check out the Daily Headline News - a collection of headlines from around the globe each weekday. We'd also love to hear from you if there is a topic that you'd like to see discussed on the Church & Culture Podcast in an upcoming episode. You can find the form to submit your questions at the bottom of the podcast page HERE.

Hal Shurtleff, host of the Camp Constitution Report, discusses the Scopes Trial and the movie based on the trial.  The textbook in question "A Civic Biology" promoted racism.  Camp Constitution is a New Hampshire based charitable trust.  We run a week-long family camp, man information tables at various venues, have a book publishing arm, and post videos from our camp and others that we think are of importance. Please visit our website www.campconstitution.net

In this week's conversation between Dr. James Emery White and co-host Alexis Drye, they discuss another significant anniversary happening this year. We recently aired CCP165: On the Nicene Creed as 2025 marks the 1700th anniversary of the creed. This year also marks the 100th anniversary of what's known as the Scopes Trial (or the “Monkey Trial”) - a sensational trial in American history where the debate over creation vs. evolution entered the courtroom. Set in the small town of Dayton, Tennessee back in 1925, the trial set defenders of evolutionary theory against those who wanted public schools to teach what was considered to be a biblical view of the origin of the world's inhabitants. Episode Links As Dr. White mentioned, the church plays a huge role when it comes to apologetics - helping people to know why they believe what they believe and to be able to give an account of their faith to others. This has always been a priority at Mecklenburg Community Church. In fact, you may be interested in checking out the following series that were given by Dr. White, all related to apologetics and/or faith vs. science: “Doubt” “Don't Check Your Brains at the Door” “The Science of God” “Astrophysics… for People Who Are Open to God” “Why Believe?” There are two resources we'd suggest you check out related to the conversation today. For a better understanding of the Hebrew mindset, we'd suggest Our Father Abraham written by Marvin R. Wilson. And then for more on the interplay between faith and science, we suggest you read How I Changed My Mind About Evolution, edited by Kathryn Applegate and J.B. Stump. Finally, today's discussion was sparked by an article on NPR by Scott Neuman and Nell Greenfieldboyce titled “100 years after evolution went on trial, the Scopes case still reverberates” outlining the cultural ramifications of this trial even 100 years later. You can read or listen to that article HERE. For those of you who are new to Church & Culture, we'd love to invite you to subscribe (for free of course) to the twice-weekly Church & Culture blog and check out the Daily Headline News - a collection of headlines from around the globe each weekday. We'd also love to hear from you if there is a topic that you'd like to see discussed on the Church & Culture Podcast in an upcoming episode. You can find the form to submit your questions at the bottom of the podcast page HERE.

After covering state/church news, we report on the "war-mongering" Christian nationalist rhetoric at Charlie Kirk's memorial. Then, we hear distinguished attorney Richard Katskee speaking at the Scopes Trial Centennial conference about his role in the 2005 lawsuit in Dover, Pennsylvania, defending the teaching of evolution in the public schools.

Our Christian Heritage goes "On Location" with Randy Melchert to Dayton, Tennessee to visit the historic Scopes Trial Courtroom.

Rebecca and Liz commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Scopes Trial. They discuss the infamous “monkey” trial, and the history of teaching evolution in public schools. An “everything old is new again” episode, showing the impact of the Scopes trial throughout the last century and digging into the latest attempts by Christian Nationalists to inject religious teachings into science curriculum.  Background Original text of the Butler Act 2025 Scope Trial Centennial speakers' presentations - FFRF  The Legacy of the Scopes Monkey Trial 100 years later - Americans United The Scopes "Monkey" Trial with Brenda Wineapple - Freethought Matters Cases State of Tennessee v. John T. Scopes (1925) Edwards v. Aguillard (1987) Kitzmil­ler v. Dover Area School District (2004) Epperson v. Arkansas (1968)   Check us out on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, and X. Our website, we-dissent.org, has more information as well as episode transcripts.

Our Christian Heritage goes "On Location" with Randy Melchert to Dayton, Tennessee to visit the historic Scopes Trial Courtroom.

Alex McFarland and David talk about the butterfly effect from the results of a 100 year old trial regarding biblical teachings in public schools. Alex McFarland Ministries: https://alexmcfarland.com/ 10 Answers For Atheists book: https://alexmcfarland.com/book/10-answers-for-atheists-how-to-have-an-intelligent-discussion-about-the-existence-of-god/ The Cost Of Our Silence book: https://davidfiorazo.com/books/cost-of-our-silence/ www.worldviewmatters.tv © FreedomProject 2025

We report on state/church victories and challenges in Arkansas, South Carolina, Texas, Morocco, Minnesota and Florida. Then, we hear Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Ed Larson (Summer for the Gods) tell us the story of the 1925 Scopes Trial, the “Trial of the Century,” pitting science against religion in Dayton, Tenn., 100 years ago.

Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ 100 years after the famous Scopes "Monkey" Trial, the battle over the separation of church and state in American public life is as heated as ever. Brad is joined by Dan Mach, director of the ACLU's Program on Freedom of Religion and Belief, to discuss the enduring legacy of the Scopes trial and its modern-day echoes in courtrooms and classrooms across the country. Linktree: https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJC Order Brad's book: https://bookshop.org/a/95982/9781506482163 Check out BetterHelp and use my code SWA for a great deal: www.betterhelp.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Joshua Swamidass continues his analysis of the Scopes Trial and how we all need to learn from its cultural and theological significance.

Dr. Josh Swamidass joins the podcast to discuss his research on the infamous Scopes Trial of 1925 and it's similarities with today's culture.

Send us a textToday I welcome a familiar voice and a longtime friend—Dr. Randall Balmer. Back in the day, when we were “Trinity Men,” he was “Randy” to me. Today, he's Dr. Balmer—historian, author, professor, and one of the leading voices on religion in America. He earned his graduate degrees at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Princeton, and Union Theological Seminary, and this marks our third interview together.Randall recently published a powerful piece in the Los Angeles Times about the 1925 Scopes Trial—often remembered as the showdown between Genesis and Darwin. He reminds us that the trial wasn't supposed to be about evolution at all, but that's where it landed. William Jennings Bryan thundered that “if evolution wins, Christianity goes.” Clarence Darrow countered, “It's not Scopes on trial—it's civilization.” Nearly a century later, the questions linger.Randall also brings us into his latest book, America's Best Idea: The Separation of Church and State. It's a sweeping story—Roger Williams's “hedge of separation,” Jefferson's Danbury letter, Madison, Adams, and the First Amendment—all the way to today's battles over vouchers, religious schools, and the religious right. Along the way, we'll talk about court rulings, culture wars, and the ongoing debate over whether America is a Christian nation—or a nation that protects the freedom of every faith, and of no faith at all.It's always a rich conversation when Dr. Balmer joins me, and today is no exception. Come on along with us! SHOW NOTESSupport the showBecome a Patron - Click on the link to learn how you can become a Patron of the show. Thank you! Ken's Substack Page The Podcast Official Site: TheBeachedWhiteMale.com

On In The Market with Janet Parshall this week celebrated along with one of our favorite guest 24 years of the Hollywood Prayer Network powerful outreach in the world of entertainment and how God continues to use this ministry to impact the lives of artists and other creatives in the movie, television and music industries with His message of eternal hope. We also shared the life journey of a man who started what can arguably be considered the most popular crafting store in America. He shared how his parents’ faith and commitment to living a life ever mindful of eternity shaped his own life journey and the mission and motivations of his business. As the tide of antisemitism in our country and abroad continues to spread, we turned to a highly respected expert on the Jewish people and the past and prophetic history to come, for a biblically based look at what we are seeing today. He addressed the upcoming U.N. conference where several countries have stated they will call for a Palestinian state. He also spoke about the ongoing efforts by Israel, despite what many news outlets are saying, to get necessary aid to Gaza and its desire to help Iran with its ongoing drought. Don’t believe the propaganda! That’s the message from our national security expert to all of us as he addressed rumors that China’s dictating leader, President XI, has plans to step down. He also discussed how the C.I.A. website was hacked and just how far behind we are in nuclear weapons stockpiles compared to China who has made it abundantly clear that it plans to attack and take over Taiwan in the very near future with an ultimate eye toward world domination. In 1925 one of the most famous trials took place in America. The Scopes Trial (or as it is more commonly referred to “The Scopes “Monkey” Trial) was a landmark event that pitted proponents of evolution against those who believed the bible’s creation account in a battle for the educational soul of our nation. Our guest took us back in time to this pivotal event to explain why this event was so important and why we are still talking about and living out the impact of this trial even today. We may be winding down the work week but that doesn’t mean that we can take a break from being informed watchmen on the wall. So, we invite you to another deep dive behind the headlines of the week as scrutinized through the lens of scripture.Become a Parshall Partner: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/inthemarket/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us this hour as apologist Abdu Murray joins us to discuss one of the most famous trials in history. The “Scopes Trial” put Charles Darwin's theory of evolution on the stand. Why was this such a significant trial, and why, 100 years later, are we still talking about the fallout from the case? Join us for the answers.Become a Parshall Partner: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/inthemarket/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The doctors have returned, picking up where they had left off, discussing the basis of our current manias, the slippery and often inchoate concepts of Secularism and Modernity. Where did they begin, what do they mean, and how do we approach them are some of the topics addressed. This time, they finish the show notes. Items mentioned in this podcast: Scopes Trial: https://tinyurl.com/MoritzScopes100 Menken on Machen: https://tinyurl.com/MenkenonMachen Othodoxy and Education: https://tinyurl.com/OrthEd2025

The doctors have returned, picking up where they had left off, discussing the basis of our current manias, the slippery and often inchoate concepts of Secularism and Modernity. Where did they begin, what do they mean, and how do we approach them are some of the topics addressed. This time, they finish the show notes. Items mentioned in this podcast: Scopes Trial: https://tinyurl.com/MoritzScopes100 Menken on Machen: https://tinyurl.com/MenkenonMachen Othodoxy and Education: https://tinyurl.com/OrthEd2025

We announce a great victory from the Arkansas courts blocking the state from displaying the Ten Commandments in every public school classroom. After reporting state/church news in California, West Virginia, Iowa and West Point Military Academy, we hear the Tom Lehrer song "I Got it from Agnes" and the "1919 Influenza Blues" by Essie Ray Jenkins. Then, we listen to the talk given at the Scopes Trial Centennial last month by Brenda Wineapple, author of Keeping the Faith: God, Democracy, and the Trial that Riveted a Nation.

Send us a textI'm honored to welcome Dr. Edward J. Larson to this episode of the podcast. Dr. Larson is the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Summer for the Gods: The Scopes Trial and America's Continuing Debate Over Science and Religion, a landmark work that reexamines the 1925 Scopes “Monkey” Trial with fresh insight and scholarly depth.In our conversation, Dr. Larson challenges the familiar narrative popularized by Inherit the Wind, revealing the Scopes Trial as far more than a simple clash between science and religion. It was, in fact, a complex cultural moment shaped by political ambition, regional identity, national media, and the anxieties of a rapidly modernizing society.We explore key figures—Clarence Darrow, William Jennings Bryan, and John Scopes—and their roles in this iconic legal battle. Dr. Larson offers fascinating context around Bryan's progressive credentials, his anti-evolution stance, and his public persona as a speaker and political leader. We also discuss the broader implications of the trial for American legal and educational systems, and how its legacy continues to inform today's debates over religion in public life, science education, and Christian nationalism.Dr. Larson reflects on his personal and academic journey, from his early years to his study from college, to grad school, to law school, and his doctoral dissertation on the history of science. He shares what inspired his deep investigation into the Scopes Trial—ultimately culminating in the Pulitzer Prize in 1998. This episode is both thought-provoking and timely. I invite you to join me for a meaningful conversation that sheds new light on a pivotal moment in American history. SHOW NOTESKen's Substack: Scopes in 2025Support the showBecome a Patron - Click on the link to learn how you can become a Patron of the show. Thank you! Ken's Substack Page The Podcast Official Site: TheBeachedWhiteMale.com

In 1925, the Scopes Monkey Trial rocked the nation—hailed as the ultimate showdown between science and religion. But behind the headlines and Hollywood dramatizations lies a scandalous and largely untold story. What really happened in that Tennessee courtroom? Was it truly about education—or was it a carefully orchestrated media circus designed to mock faith and promote evolution? In this episode with Dr. Brad Harrub, we revisit the Scopes Trial scandal and uncover the truth that history books often ignore. You'll hear shocking facts about how evidence was manipulated, how public perception was swayed by bias, and how this case marked a turning point in the battle for the classroom—and the culture.

Send us a textA Dangerous Idea: The Scopes Trial, The Original Fight Over Science In Schools by Debbie LevyWhen John T. Scopes was interrupted during a game of tennis after finishing his first year of teaching in Tennessee, and asked to go down and talk to some of the local townspeople at the drugstore, he didn't think much of it. But when he arrived he found some guys planning something big, something to put the sleepy little town of Dayton, TN on the map, forever. And it would be an issue that we still deal with to this very day. Recommended for grades 8 and up. Support the show

The Scopes Trial is one of the most famous court cases in American history, and this year marks its one hundredth anniversary. Often, this is framed as a battle between science and religion, a perspective that has been perpetuated in the century since. But how much of what we’re told is real, and how much is the product of media distortion and clever storytelling? Further, the evidence that supposedly supported evolution slated for use in the trial was suspect at best and fraudulent at worst. From beginning to end, the entire ordeal—from plans made before the trial to the media blitz that followed—was orchestrated to push a narrative. And that narrative runs counter to what Scripture plainly teaches. In the first episode of this series, we discussed the Scopes Trial, the events leading up to it, and the aftermath. In today’s episode, we’ll look into the supposed evidence that was intended to be used to support evolutionary theory. Learn more about the 100 Years of Monkey Business Conference ---

Historians note that a famous trial from 1925 regarding the teaching of evolution still matters today, as the classroom is still a battleground for controversial ideas.

On the 100th anniversary of the famous Scopes Trial in Tennessee that gained national attention dealing with teaching the Theory of Evolution in schools, many folks may still wonder exactly what the Catholic Church teaches about Evolution and Creation.

On the 100th anniversary of the famous Scopes Trial in Tennessee that gained national attention dealing with teaching the Theory of Evolution in schools, many folks may still wonder exactly what the Catholic Church teaches about Evolution and Creation.

July 2025 marks the 100th anniversary of the Scopes Trial – a trial that exposed profound divisions in America over religion, education, and public morality. This was a legal case in Dayton, Tennessee, where high school teacher John Scopes was prosecuted for teaching evolution, violating the state's Butler Act. The Butler Act was a 1925 Tennessee law that prohibited public school teachers from teaching any theory that denied the biblical account of human creation, specifically targeting the teaching of evolution. But believe it or not, this entire trial was orchestrated. Local leaders had the teacher volunteer to be charged as a publicity stunt to boost the town's economy and gain national attention. But it soon gained far more attention than anyone expected, as it touch a nerve on the national clash between an increasingly secular scientific establishment and religious fundamentalists. Battle lines were drawn in the courtroom. Clarence Darrow, a renowned agnostic lawyer and advocate for civil liberties, defended Scopes, while William Jennings Bryan, a prominent Christian populist, three-time presidential candidate, and anti-evolution crusader, prosecuted, highlighting their contrasting worldviews. The trial became a media sensation due to its clash of science versus religion, drawing hundreds of reporters, radio broadcasts, and public fascination with the dramatic courtroom exchanges, particularly Darrow’s cross-examination of Bryan. To discuss the legacy of the case is today’s guest, Brenda Wineapple, author of “Keeping the Faith: God, Democracy, and the Trial that Riveted America.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1925, a courtroom in Dayton, Tennessee became the stage for a cultural turning point—the Scopes "Monkey" Trial. But this wasn't just a debate about evolution vs. creation. It was the moment America began its bold experiment of removing God from the classroom—and eventually, from the culture.   Now, 100 years later, what has that experiment produced?   Join Eric Hovind to revisit the trial that put God and His Word on trial, exposing the strategy of the trial, the damage caused, and why so many Christians today are still unprepared to defend their faith under pressure. You'll discover how Clarence Darrow's attack, William Jennings Bryan's unpreparedness, and the ACLU's agenda launched a century of secularism—and why it's time for a generation to rise up, reclaim truth, and end the experiment. This isn't just a history lesson. It's a wake-up call.   Watch this Podcast on Video at: https://creationtoday.org/on-demand-classes/100-years-without-god-the-legacy-of-the-scopes-trial-creation-today-show-433/  Join Eric LIVE each Wednesday at 12 Noon CT for conversations with Experts. You can support this podcast by becoming a Creation Today Partner at CreationToday.org/Partner

This week marks the 100th anniversary of the conclusion of The State of Tennessee v. John Thomas Scopes.In "Keeping the Faith: God, Democracy, and the Trial That Riveted a Nation," acclaimed historian Brenda Wineapple revisits the Scopes “Monkey” Trial of 1925 - not just as a courtroom clash over evolution, but as a defining moment in the struggle between religious belief, scientific inquiry, and democratic ideals in America.

In July 1925, the Scopes “Monkey” Trial captivated the nation. On its face, the case was relatively straightforward: A Tennessee biology teacher named John Scopes was accused of teaching human evolution to his students. At the time, that was against state law. Both sides enlisted the help of big name lawyers to represent them, and the case turned into a national spectacle. But, why has the legacy of the case persisted? And what can it help us understand about our current moment?Host Ira Flatow talks with Brenda Wineapple, author of Keeping the Faith: God, Democracy, and the Trial that Riveted a Nation. Read an excerpt of the book at sciencefriday.com.Transcripts for each episode are available within 1-3 days at sciencefriday.com. Subscribe to this podcast. Plus, to stay updated on all things science, sign up for Science Friday's newsletters.

Was the Scopes “Monkey Trial” ever really about science—or was it a staged showdown with a hidden agenda?  In this episode of All Rise, we talk to Dr. Rick Townsend, a historian of ideas whose groundbreaking dissertation uncovers the real story behind one of the most famous courtroom dramas in American history: the 1925 Scopes Trial.  For a century, we've been told it was the moment science defeated religion. But what if the real battle wasn't evolution vs. creation—but parental rights vs. elite control? Dr. Townsend walks us through how the trial was orchestrated, how William Jennings Bryan became a media caricature, and how a false narrative took root that still shapes educational debates today.  We also explore Mahmoud v. Taylor, a 2025 Supreme Court decision that echoes the same themes 100 years later. Are we still fighting the same battle—just with different labels?  Whether you're a believer, skeptic, or just someone tired of being told a one-sided version of history, this episode will change the way you think about the “Monkey Trial”—and what's really at stake in the classroom.   Dr. Rick Townsend's PhD Dissertation, "Reconsidering Bryan: William Jennings Bryan's Advocacy of Causes Using Rights-Based Arguments," can be accessed at https://utd-ir.tdl.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/3aa73f5e-5985-4a20-8a04-7131c391dffb/content.    Dr. Townsend's recent article in Salvo Magazine, "Still Unrefuted," about the anti-evolution arguments of William Jennings Bryan: https://salvomag.com/article/salvo73/still-unrefuted.   Salvo Magazine's most recent issue, which includes Dr. Townsend's articles along with several others', can be accessed here: https://salvomag.com/issue/current (note that this link will only go to the correct issue while it is the "current" issue. For future reference, this is issue #73 from Summer 2025).   You can keep up with Dr. Townsend through his LinkedIn page at www.linkedin.com/in/rick-townsend-271b2920.   

On this week's AP Religion Minute, a Tennessee town corrects the record with its own play on the Scopes trial. AP correspondent Walter Ratliff reports.

Give to help Chris continue making Truce I made these episodes a few years ago, but since it is the 100th anniversary of the Scopes "Monkey" trial, I thought we should revisit them! Tennessee was the first state in the United States to crack down hard on the teaching of evolution in public schools. Others had dabbled, but Tennessee went all the way. The ACLU wanted to challenge the validity of the case in the courts. In order to do that they needed an educator to teach it, get busted, and be brought to trial. At the same time, the town of Dayton, TN, needed a boost. After the biggest employer closed down, it faced serious economic trouble. What if the men of Dayon could manufacture a court case to draw the attention of the nation? They found a young teacher named John Scopes and convinced him to participate in their scheme. They booked Scopes, even though he probably never taught evolution. The ACLU had its case. Soon, William Jennings Bryan and Clarence Darrow hopped on board, and it went from a publicity stunt to something for the history books. This is the event that some historians (wrongly) point to as the death of Christian fundamentalism in the United States until it was revived by the Moral Majority. One man fighting for the biblical idea of creation and another for godless atheism. But the real history is far more complex. Edward Larson, professor at Pepperdine University, joins us to discuss the trial and his Pulitzer Prize-winning book “Summer for the Gods”. Helpful Sources: “Summer for the Gods” by Edward Larson Rhea County Heritage and Scopes Trial Museum Worth a visit! Court Transcript of the Scopes Trial (easy to find online) “A Godly Hero” by Michael Kazin Discussion Questions: What events led to the Scopes trial? Why did the ACLU feel they had to try the Tennessee Law? Who should decide what is taught in schools? Teachers? Parents? Lawmakers? Or some combination? What were William Jennings Bryan's motives for joining the prosecution? What were Clarence Darrow's motives for joining the defense? Should prayer be allowed before a trial about religion? Should Christians get involved in what is taught in schools? To what degree? Dayton, Tennessee's plan to boost tourism William Jennings Bryan's crusade against Darwin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

One hundred years ago, in July 1925, a high school teacher in Dayton, Tennessee, was arrested for teaching evolution. John Scopes' guilt was never in doubt, but his sensational trial was the center of national attention, pitting modernists against traditionalists, the defenders of Darwin's science against Christian fundamentalists. In this episode, historian Michael Kazin recounts what happened inside the courtroom and why it still matters. The culture wars of the early twentieth century echo in our society today, as the Democratic Party has lost rural America.  Further reading: The Trial of the Century is 100. Its Lessons Could Save the Democrats by Michael Kazin (New York Times) A Godly Hero: The Life of William Jennings Bryan by Michael Kazin (2006)

On this week's AP Religion Roundup, a Tennessee town corrects the record with its own play on the Scopes trial. AP Correspondent Walter Ratliff reports.

The Scopes Trial is one of the most famous court cases in American history, and this year marks its one hundredth anniversary. Often, this is framed as a battle between science and religion, a perspective that has been perpetuated in the century since. But how much of what we’re told is real, and how much is the product of media distortion and clever storytelling? Further, the evidence that supposedly supported evolution slated for use in the trial was suspect at best and fraudulent at worst. From beginning to end, the entire ordeal—from plans made before the trial to the media blitz that followed—was orchestrated to push a narrative. And that narrative runs counter to what Scripture plainly teaches. In this two-part series, we’ll be discussing the Scopes Trial, the events leading up to it, and the aftermath, as well as much of the supposed evidence that was intended to be used to support evolutionary theory. Learn more about the 100 Years of Monkey Business Conference --- Join ICR's YouTube channel to get access to perks

Monday, July 14, 2025 Then in the second, he welcomes first time guest, Dr. Rick Townsend to our studio. He and Kerby spends some time discussing History, Creationism & Evolution, how they shape our view of Science and of Theology and about the Centennial anniversary of the Scopes Trial. Connect with us on Facebook at […]

The "Monkey Trial," the contest over teaching evolution that was dubbed the trial of the century, is re-lived onstage each summer in the town that the trial made famous. The AP's Jennifer King has more.

The Scopes Trial and its cast of colorful characters is the story of the power of narratives to shape public perception.  Related Resource What Would You Say?: Are Humans and Chimpanzees Basically the Same? _____________ Get FREE access to the “Why Life?  Courageous Faith in a Culture of Death” video series at colsoncenter.org/whylife. 

July 10 marks the 100th anniversary of the start of the Scopes Trial, which centered on the ability to teach the theory of evolution in public schools. We reflect on the legacy of this monumental case and its relevance today, with Brenda Wineapple, author of the book Keeping the Faith: God, Democracy, and the Trial That Riveted a Nation.

On this ID The Future from the vault, host David Boze interviews filmmaker Fred Foote, writer and producer of the feature-length drama Alleged, which seeks to tell the real story behind the infamous 1925 Scopes Trial in Dayton, Tennessee, which pitched Darwinian evolution against belief in God. Through his own research, Foote discovered that Inherit the Wind was "almost exactly wrong" on many crucial points. Foote discusses how his movie strives to present both sides in the famous trial as fairly as possible. Source

On Friday, the Supreme Court ruled that a Maryland couple could pull their child out of classes where the material involved books with LGBTQ themes. The six conservative justices ruled that parents should not be required to expose their children to class materials that go against their religious beliefs. Coincidentally, almost exactly one hundred years ago – in July 1925 – there was another famous legal debate over what kids learn in the classroom that took place in Tennessee. The so-called Scopes Monkey Trial was ground zero for one of America’s first culture wars: The debate over whether or not evolution should be taught in schools. Guest: Alexander Gouzoules, associate professor at the University of Missouri School of Law and co-author of The Hundred Years' Trial: Law, Evolution, and the Long Shadow of Scopes v. Tennessee Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this timely episode of "Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other," host Corey Nathan speaks with Professor Daniel Mach, Director of the ACLU Program on Freedom of Religion and Belief and adjunct professor of law at the George Washington University Law School. They explore the complexities of First Amendment rights, the historical Scopes Trial, and the fine line between religious freedom and government endorsement of religion. What We Discuss: How Daniel Mach's passion for First Amendment law began. The ACLU's approach to defending speech across ideological lines. Key legal principles behind landmark cases like Kennedy v. Bremerton. The modern-day impact of church-state separation rulings. The importance of defending civil liberties regardless of popularity. Episode Highlights: [00:01:00] Dan's origin story, sparked by a high school paper on the Scopes Trial. [00:05:00] ACLU's surprising position in the Boston Christian flag case. [00:09:00] The real facts behind Kennedy v. Bremerton School District. [00:23:00] Historical insight into the Scopes Trial and why it still matters. [00:38:00] Breakdown of the opt-out debate in Mahmoud v. Montgomery County. [00:48:00] Can a Catholic public school exist? Oklahoma says maybe. [00:56:00] Concerns about threats to the rule of law. [01:00:00] How to speak across ideological divides and why it matters. Featured Quotes: "Rights for all — the right to speak even hateful things — triggered something in my mind where I thought, yeah, that's the way to go." – Daniel Mach "If the rules only protect people you like, then those rules are not rules at all." – Daniel Mach "Part of religious liberty is keeping religion and government separate — not just to protect government, but to protect religion." – Daniel Mach Resources Mentioned: ACLU: https://www.aclu.org Kennedy v. Bremerton: https://www.oyez.org/cases/2021/21-418 Scopes Trial History: https://www.history.com/topics/roaring-twenties/scopes-trial Mahmoud v. Montgomery County: https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/24pdf/24-297_4f14.pdf Oklahoma Catholic Charter School Ruling: https://www.scotusblog.com/2025/05/split-supreme-court-blocks-first-religious-charter-school-in-oklahoma/

Tennessee has a long history of naming official state songs, wildflowers, fish and other wildlife. One of our favorites has to be the official state artifact. Plus, the local news for July 1, 2025, and a trip to Dayton for the 100-year anniversary of the Scopes Trial. Credits: This is a production of Nashville Public RadioHost/producer: Nina CardonaEditor: Miriam KramerAdditional support: Mack Linebaugh, Tony Gonzalez, Rachel Iacovone, LaTonya Turner and the staff of WPLN and WNXP

The latest exhibit at the Tennessee State Museum, “Eight Days in Dayton: 100 Years of the Scopes Trial,” will be on display June 24–October 12, 2025. It offers a rich, immersive journey through the State of Tennessee v. John T. Scopes, one of the most iconic legal and cultural events in American history. In this episode, the museum's chief curator, Richard White, and K-12 education manager, Christopher Grisham, share details about the trial, discuss what makes this such a pivotal moment in Tennessee history, and take listeners behind the scenes of the planning and implementation of the exhibit and the educational tools that accompany it. The exhibit centers on the 1925 Scopes Trial in Dayton, Tennessee, where John T. Scopes, a Dayton high school teacher, was prosecuted under Tennessee's Butler Act for teaching human evolution—a law that prohibited denying biblical creation in public schools. Framed as a challenge to the constitutionality of the law, the trial was staged to ignite both legal and social debate over science versus religion. At the time, it was considered the trial of the century. The exhibit brings the courtroom battles to life and features photographs, tintypes, daguerreotypes, and enlarged press images of Scopes, Darrow, Bryan, and the Dayton community. Visitors will also find authentic courtroom furnishings from the trial, alongside the original microphone used for live radio transmission, the biology textbook Scopes used to teach evolution at Rhea County High School and the table and chairs from Robinson's Drugstore where local civic and business leaders met in May 1925 to hatch the idea of challenging the Butler Act in court. Archival trial documents and an engaging audiovisual history guide visitors through the unfolding drama and its aftermath. This episode is brought to you by The Citizens Bank.