The Scopes Trial Timeline

The Scopes Trial, also known as the Scopes Monkey Trial, took place in 1925 in Dayton, Tennessee. This court case challenged the legality of teaching evolution in public schools enacted by the Butler Act. In response to a solicitation from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) looking for someone to contest the Butler Act, civic leaders in Dayton approached John Scopes, a high school science teacher, and he agreed to take on the challenge. Scopes was subsequently arrested and charged with teaching evolution. The trial occurred from July 10 to July 21 at the Rhea County Courthouse in Dayton. The Scopes Trial became a widely publicized and sensationalized story, capturing national and international attention during the summer of 1925. It was the first trial to be broadcast live on the radio. Adding to the high stakes, William Jennings Bryan, a three-time Democratic presidential nominee, was part of the prosecution, while Clarence Darrow, a famous civil liberties lawyer, defended Scopes. In the end, Scopes was found guilty and fined $100. This timeline marks 100 years since the trial began, highlighting key moments.