Famous Trials                                                                                             Spring 2008

 Final Exam

(100 points)

 The final exam consists of two take-home questions as described below.  Papers are due electronically no later than 2 P.M. on Monday May 5. 

 If you would prefer to write on a different topic for either (or both) of the questions, please write me an e-mail with the proposed topic(s) and a list of the relevant course materials.  Requests for alternative topics must be received by 11:00 AM on Monday April 28.  I will respond with a yes or no by Wednesday April 30 at 12:00 Noon.

Does America provide freedom and justice for all?

 Many Americans like to think that this country provides freedom and justice for all.  To what extent is this claim a reality for racial and ethnic minorities and for political dissidents?  Consider the assigned reading for Weeks 14 and 15.  Make specific references to a number of events, and be sure to make use of some primary sources. (You may refer to other material, including class handouts such as Senator Obama’s speech, and items from earlier units, but concentrate on Units 14 and 15). Your paper should be in the range of 4 to 6 pages, typed and double-spaced in a 12-point font. If you use course materials only, be sure to cite them appropriately, but you do not need a works cited/consulted page.  If you use anything not included in the course materials, include a works cited/consulted page with full bibliographic data.

 Deadline: 2 P.M. on Monday May 5 

Best and Worst Cases

 Write a paper of about three pages (12-point font, double-spaced) in which you answer either Option A or Option B below.

 Option A. Of all the trials we considered this semester, which one constituted the most serious failure of justice?  Explain your criteria for calling it unjust, and make use of the course materials in documenting your position.

 Option B. Of all the trials we considered this semester, which one did the best job of providing justice in a difficult situation?  Explain your criteria for determining what is just and make use of the course materials in documenting your position.

 Your paper should be in the range of 3 to 5 pages, typed and double-spaced in a 12-point font.

 Deadline: 2 P.M. on Monday May 5

If you use course materials only, be sure to cite them appropriately, but you do not need a works cited/consulted page.  If you use anything not included in the course materials, include a works cited/consulted page with full bibliographic data.