Freedom of Speech: A Peopleâ (Tm)S History of Democracyâ (Tm)S Most Essential Right - Paperback

$17.95

Freedom of Speech: A Peopleâ (Tm)S History of Democracyâ (Tm)S Most Essential Right - Paperback

Name: Freedom of Speech: A Peopleâ (Tm)S History of Democracyâ (Tm)S Most Essential Right - Paperback
Brand: BooksCloud
SKU: 9781586424527
Price: 17.95 USD
Availability: InStock

by Christopher Finan

$17.95

Book Overview

An essential look at how, throughout American history, the powerless have exercised their 1st Amendment right to free speech, informing how we can defend democracy today.

"Great storytelling about the history and importance of the 1st Amendment, from someone who has spent his life defending--and using--it." -- Mary Beth Tinker

From the beginning of American history, free speech has been crucial for the pursuit of justice and expansion of democracy. Yet today, we are seeing growing attempts to roll back free speech protections in America: cultural warriors are banning books from library shelves at a level not seen in decades, and elected officials are attacking free speech principles to undermine other rights and consolidate their own power.

Uncovering vivid and engaging stories about 1st Amendment pioneers throughout American history, historian and leading censorship expert Christopher Finan highlights how free speech has been used to advocate for change. In the 19th century, abolitionists, advocates for women's rights, and leaders of the labor movement had to fight for free speech. In the 20th century, the civil rights and anti-war movements expanded free speech, creating a shield for every protest movement that we have seen since.

With sharp insight and page-turning storytelling, Finan demonstrates that the most effective antidote for the growth of hate speech, misinformation, political violence, and anti-democratic efforts by government officials is support for and cultivation of a free and robust marketplace of ideas.

ISBN	9781586424527
Author	Christopher Finan
Publisher	Steerforth Press
Genre	News & politics and History
Format	Paperback
Published	May 2026
Language	ENG- English
Pages	256
Weight	1.0 lb
Target Audience	Adults
Print Size	Standard Print