USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in a 5-4 decision in favor of Johnson. The high court agreed that symbolic speech – no matter how offensive to some – is protected under the First Amendment. DISCLAIMER: These resources are created by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts for educational purposes only.

Detailed explanation-2: -In Texas v. Johnson, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Johnson, overturning flag desecration laws in 48 states. The controversial 5-4 decision held that flag burning is a form of symbolic speech, which is protected under the First Amendment. Therefore, any laws prohibiting flag desecration are unconstitutional.

Detailed explanation-3: -Facts of the case In 1984, in front of the Dallas City Hall, Gregory Lee Johnson burned an American flag as a means of protest against Reagan administration policies. Johnson was tried and convicted under a Texas law outlawing flag desecration.

Detailed explanation-4: -Johnson, legal case in which the U.S. Supreme Court ruled (5–4) on June 21, 1989, that the burning of the U.S. flag is a protected form of speech under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.