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First Amendment Limitations

259 Words2 Pages
Another limitation that does not protect citizens under the First Amendment is using fighting words that disturb the peace. In April 1940, Walter Chaplinsky was in downtown in Rochester, New Hampshire handing out literature and speaking publicly about religion. As Chaplinsky continued to talk, the crowd continued to grow, blocking the streets and disturbing the area. The public around him became upset with Chaplinsky as he began to denounce religion as “racket”. A complaint was filed with the City Marshall. Following the filed complaint, the City Marshall warned Chaplinsky about disturbing the public but Chaplinsky continued to speak despite being given a warning. The police officer returned to the scene and Chaplinsky started to act erratically
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