Question

When did the Supreme Court face particular difficulty in enforcing its rulings?

a. during the civil rights movement
b. during the Great Depression
c. during the women's suffrage movement
d. during the Progressive Era

Answer 1

During the civil rights movement, the Supreme Court faced difficulties enforcing its rulings due to local and state resistance, as well as constrained authority in state and individual matters, despite supportive legislation like the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Supreme Court faced particular difficulty in enforcing its rulings during the civil rights movement. At this time, despite landmark legislation like the Civil Rights Act (1964) and the Voting Rights Act (1965), there was still considerable resistance to these reforms. The enforcement of rulings that expanded civil rights and voting rights often met with local and state opposition, revealing the challenges inherent in the Supreme Court's ability to ensure its decisions were carried out.

Furthermore, historical rulings such as in the case of U.S. v. Reese indicated earlier limitations of the Supreme Court in influencing state and local matters, directly impacting civil liberties. The Warren Court, during the Johnson administration, showcased a strong alignment with the national push for civil rights, as seen in decisions that expanded individual rights and protections.