Espionage Act of 1917

Definition

The Espionage Act of 1917 was a federal law passed during World War I that made it illegal to interfere with military operations or aid the enemy. It imposed heavy penalties, including imprisonment and fines, on those convicted of espionage or sedition.

Related terms

Sedition Act: A related law passed in 1798 which made it illegal to criticize the government, undermining freedom of speech.

Committee on Public Information (CPI): An agency created during World War I to shape public opinion in favor of the war effort through propaganda and censorship.

Schenck v. United States: A Supreme Court case that tested the constitutionality of the Espionage Act and established limits on free speech during wartime.