Edwards vs. Aguillard

Supreme Court Decision

482 U.S. 578 (1987)

Docket Number: 85-1513

Louisiana's "Creationism Act" forbade the teaching of the theory of evolution in elementary and secondary public (government) schools unless accompanied by instruction in the theory of creation science. Appellees, who include Louisiana parents, teachers, and religious leaders, challenged the Act's constitutionality in Federal District Court, seeking an injunction and declaratory relief. The District Court granted summary judgment to appellees, holding that the Act violated the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. The Court of Appeals affirmed.

Related References

• Abstract by OYEZ
• Audio file of oral argument

See Also

• Creation vs. Evolution Trials