What was a major consequence of the Butler Act?

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Study for the Texas AandM University HIST106 History of the United States Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The Butler Act, passed in Tennessee in 1925, significantly impacted the education system by prohibiting the teaching of evolution in public schools. This legislation led to a notable series of legal battles, most famously represented by the Scopes "Monkey" Trial, where John T. Scopes was charged with violating the act. The trial not only became a platform for discussing the legality of the Butler Act but also sparked a broader national debate about science, religion, and the role of education. As a result, the legal controversies stemming from the Butler Act played a crucial role in highlighting the tensions between traditional beliefs and modern scientific theories during the early 20th century. Thus, the legal challenges that arose were a direct and significant consequence of the enactment of the Butler Act.