Seminar in Famous Trials

    Fall Semester 2020 (1 credit)
    Syllabus     
    Professor Doug Linder 

    This will be an online course.  I will post video lectures, and in some cases also video clips from documentaries, relating to one or two trials for each session.  Students will be expected to view these lectures and clips in advance of class, then post reactions, questions, or ideas for class discussion on our "Trials Discussion Board."
     Actual designated class time will be via a Zoom meeting.  This syllabus is tentative.  If there is substantial demand to substitute another famous trial for one listed below, that can happen.  Grades will be based on an objective exam and assigned essay.

    SESSION 1 (October 7): HOW THINGS GET CARRIED AWAY

    Salem Witchcraft Trials (1692)
    McMartin Preschool Trials (1987-90)

    SESSION 2 (October 14); TWO CLARENCE DARROW TRIALS

    Trial of Leopold and Loeb (1924)
    The Sweet Trials (1925 & 1926)

    SESSION 3 (October 21): TRIALS BY MILITARY COMMISSION

    Dakota Conflict Trials (1862)
    Lincoln Conspiracy Trials (1865)

    SESSION 4 (October 28): LYNCHERS GET TAKEN TO COURT

    Sheriff Shipp Trial (1907-09)
    Mississippi Burning Trial (1967)

    SESSION 5 (November 4): TESTING LIBERTIES

    Ruby Ridge (Randy Weaver) Trial (1987)
    Dr. Jack Kevorkian Trials (1992-99)

    SESSION 6 (November 11): RELIGION ON TRIAL

    Scopes "Monkey" Trial (1925)
    Jehovah's Witnesses Flag Salute Trials (1939-43)
    Amish Compulsory Education Trial (Yoder v Wiscosin) (1971)

    SESSION 7 (November 18): WRONGFUL CONVICTIONS

    Scottsboro Boys Trials (1931-37)
    West Memphis 3 Trials (1994)
 

    FAMOUS TRIALS WEBSITE