The Pentagon Papers: Fortifying Democracy Through a Free Press
Thesis
In June of 1971, The New York Times published the “Pentagon Papers” -- a collection of classified documents describing United States' historical involvement in Vietnam. The publication set off an intense burst of legal disputes over the rights and responsibilities of the press and the Executive Branch. President Nixon asserted his right and responsibility to protect national security and sought court action to prevent publication. The New York Times claimed its First Amendment right and responsibility to inform the public. Various courts evaluated these claims. The case rose quickly to the United States Supreme Court. Ultimately, the Court ruled in favor of press freedom and strengthened the First Amendment. The Supreme Court’s decision serves as a foundation to resolve tensions between a watchdog press and a government that wants to preserve secrecy. With New York Times Co. v. United States as their guide, the press and the government balance their rights and responsibilities to keep the public safe and informed in our democracy. |
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