From colonial times to the present, an insightful examination of how courts have determined the extent to which religion is accommodated in American public life. From the internationally renowned Scopes "Monkey Trial" of 1925, which pitted a public school teacher arrested for teaching evolution against the state of Tennessee, Religion on Trial chronicles key court cases that have shaped the tumultuous relationship between church and state throughout U.S. history. This volume chronicles such groundbreaking cases as the 1991 decision ordering blood transfusions for children of Christian Scientists in Norwood Hospital v. Munoz and the infamous case, Engel v. Vitale, that banned prayer in schools and ignited calls for Chief Justice Earl Warren's impeachment. The work addresses such inflammatory contemporary disputes as prayer in schools, allegiance to the flag, and the display of religious symbols on public property, and the impact they have had on American society. A-Z entries cover people, laws, events, and concepts that have shaped the legal debate over religion in the United States A chronology begins in colonial times and extends through the present, with a special focus on important court cases of the 20th century

Religion in the Schools examines the many facets of this complex subject, including prayer in the schools, the teaching of evolution, and other issues that continue to generate controversy. It provides a broad overview of the subject, as well as a detailed examination of the underpinnings of the legal and societal wall between church and state. Biographical sketches of over 20 key individuals involved in the issues are provided as well. Although the book discusses many legal issues and court cases, Religion in the Schools is written for laypersons with minimum legal jargon and stresses the results of court decisions rather than detailed legal analyses of the cases. Readers will come away from this informative volume with a solid understanding of both sides of this controversial and ever-current topic. Biographical sketches of over 20 key individuals involved in the issues

An authoritative but accessible reference, this book enables anyone to truly understand both the background and operation of the U.S. tax system and current tax reform proposals. Dissatisfaction with high taxes is literally an American tradition; indeed, the American Revolution that led to the founding of the United States started as a tax revolt. Today, widespread displeasure with our tax system continues, as demonstrated by the strong anti-tax position of the recent Tea Party movement. Tax Reform: A Reference Handbook, Second Edition introduces lay readers to taxes in general, the U.S. tax system in particular, and the issues involved in reforming the system. Details regarding past tax reform measures are provided to lend relevance and perspective to recent tax reform proposals, such as replacing the income tax (and the IRS) with a federal sales tax. The author stresses political rather than technical issues, and presents all viewpoints on this hotly debated topic fairly. Includes government source documents discussing tax reform proposals Provides an insightful historical overview of tax revolts and tax reform proposals A bibliography provides numerous references to text, web-based, and other types of sources A glossary explains technical terms in easy-to-understand language