Supreme Court Blocks Texas Execution for Inmate Who Wants Pastor’s Touch

One of America's most cherished freedoms is the free exercise of religion. In a nation where people of many faiths live side-by-side, the First Amendment's Free Exercise Clause protects individuals from government interference in the practice of their faith. The government cannot target laws at specific religious practices or place undue burdens on its citizens' worship. This lesson explores the free exercise clause and the many questions that arise from its enforcement.

This unit explores both the First Amendment’s Establishment Clause and Free Exercise Clause, including in-depth studies of the Founders’ understanding of both. The unit explores the Lemon and endorsement tests as well as the relationship between the government and religious institutions. In addition, the unit investigates instances in which “free exercise” and “establishment” might conflict.