The NY Times Co. vs the United States of America Explained: US History Review

The video discusses the landmark Supreme Court case New York Times v. United States (1971), which centered on the Pentagon Papers and the issue of prior restraint. The case arose when Daniel Ellsberg leaked the Pentagon Papers to the New York Times, revealing government secrets about the Vietnam War. President Nixon attempted to stop the publication, citing national security concerns. However, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the New York Times, emphasizing the importance of the First Amendment and freedom of the press. This decision limited government power and increased public awareness of the Vietnam War, contributing to its eventual end.

What is prior restraint and how was it applied in this case?

What was the Supreme Court's ruling regarding the Espionage Act in relation to the New York Times?

In what ways did the ruling in this case expand freedom of the press?