How the Supreme Court Decides Civil Rights Cases

CrashCourse

This educational video explores the complexities of the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment, distinguishing between civil liberties and civil rights. It delves into how the Supreme Court evaluates discrimination cases through different levels of judicial scrutiny, specifically focusing on strict scrutiny for protected classes and the rational basis test for other government actions. The host explains the legal frameworks used to determine when discrimination is unconstitutional and when it is legally permissible. The content breaks down the "levels of scrutiny"—strict, intermediate, and rational basis—that courts apply to laws targeting specific groups. It uses the "Thought Bubble" segment to explain the concept of "discrete and insular minorities" and why the judicial system offers them special protection. The video also analyzes key historical Supreme Court cases, including Plessy v. Ferguson, Korematsu v. United States, and the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision, explaining the shift from legal precedents to sociological arguments in ending segregation. For educators, this video provides a robust framework for teaching constitutional law, the judicial process, and the history of civil rights in the United States. It offers clear definitions of complex legal terms and tests, making it an excellent resource for AP Government, Civics, and American History classes. The video facilitates discussions on the role of the judiciary in protecting minority rights and how legal interpretations of equality have evolved over time.