Which is not an example of government successfully restrictions civil liberties?
A.the gag rule of 1840
B. Suspension of printing of socialist newspapers during WWI
C. president Nixon attempt to halt publication of the pentagon paper
D. Internment of Japanese Americans during WWII
Yes, C.
To determine which option is not an example of a successful government restriction of civil liberties, let's examine each choice:
A. The gag rule of 1840: This refers to a rule implemented by the U.S. Congress that prohibited discussing the issue of slavery in the House of Representatives. This restriction on freedom of speech was eventually repealed in 1844 due to growing opposition. It can be considered an example of a successful restriction of civil liberties.
B. Suspension of printing of socialist newspapers during WWI: During World War I, the U.S. government imposed restrictions on publications that were deemed to be a threat to national security or promoting anti-war sentiment. This included socialist newspapers, which were temporarily suspended. This can be seen as an example of a successful government restriction of civil liberties.
C. President Nixon's attempt to halt publication of the Pentagon Papers: The Pentagon Papers were leaked classified documents that revealed the U.S. government's questionable decisions during the Vietnam War. President Nixon tried to prevent their publication, arguing that it would harm national security. However, his efforts were ultimately unsuccessful due to the Supreme Court ruling in favor of freedom of the press. Therefore, this is an example of an unsuccessful government attempt to restrict civil liberties.
D. Internment of Japanese Americans during WWII: During World War II, the U.S. government ordered the forced relocation and internment of over 100,000 people of Japanese descent, mainly on the West Coast, due to concerns of their potential loyalty to Japan. This action violated the civil liberties of a specific racial group and is widely regarded as a dark period in American history. Therefore, this is an example of a successful government restriction of civil liberties.
Based on the explanations above, the answer is C. President Nixon's attempt to halt publication of the Pentagon Papers is not an example of a successful government restriction of civil liberties.