"Have To" History: Landmark Supreme Court Cases: Stuff You Don't Really Want To Know (But For Some Reason Have To) About The Most Important Cases In Supreme Court History

by Dallas Koehn

Whether you’re a student trying to fake your way through an American History or Government class, a loyal American citizen seeking constitutional context for current events, or just trying to look smart on a budget, “Have To” Landmark Supreme Court Cases is all the stuff you don’t really want to know (but for some reason have to) about 44 of the most important cases in our collective history. From midnight judges to gay marriage, internment camps to presidential shenanigans, you’ll find yourself looking more thoughtful and insightful just by leaving a few copies lying around. And if you actually read it, well… your credibility and self-confidence will soar, and you’ll start decisively winning all of those arguments on social media. (Just tell them you have the book!) Each featured case comes with historical context, the “three big things” you should remember, and an explanation of the decision and why we’re still talking about it today. Excerpts from the Court’s majority opinions are included, along with interesting bits from important concurring or dissenting opinions (so you can take in the Court’s reasoning in its own words). Additional “worth-a-look” cases are presented in compact form with brief highlights from the Court’s decision and a quick summary of the case and why it mattered. “Have To” Landmark Supreme Court Cases is readable and fresh and covers everything likely to be on the test. Take that last bit as literally or metaphorically as you wish.

228 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 9, 2020

About the author

Dallas Koehn has taught for more than twenty years in a variety of settings, including “Pre-AP” and “On-Level” U.S. History, American Government, Oklahoma History, AP World History, AP U.S. History, and even a few English classes. He was a consultant for the College Board (with all the usual disclaimers) for over fifteen years and has led more teacher workshops in history, reading, and general teacher survival than seems reasonable in one lifetime. Dallas is also the voice of Blue Cereal Education, a history and education website with a modicum of renown among the chosen few. He currently resides with his wife and two rabbits in South Bend, Indiana, and is generally tolerable after enough coffee.

Reviews

[Karen Vance · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Truth About SupremeCourt Rulings


Loved the structure of the book. For example, each landmark case is given three big reasons a case was important then and now. There is a brief but clear overview of the history and significance of each decision. I felt like there was just the right amount of information describing the court at the time of each decision and loved reading about the aftermath and unintended consequences the decisions created in our society.

This informative book provides a comprehensive history of the people and cases that have changed history. It is invaluable to anyone looking to get up to speed on the Supreme Court’s most important major rulings. The individual chapters are all written in interesting and clear prose. I highly recommended it for teachers, students, and anyone interested in the truth about the critical role the third branch plays.

[Julie Gardner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I realize that “fun” is an odd descriptor for a book summarizing significant Supreme Court cases, but I stand by it. Mr. Koehn’s unique commentary makes potentially dry material more palatable and often more understandable.

The book’s structure is set up in such a way that it will be useful as a reference as well: each case gets a catchy subtitle (learning strategies), three key points, summary and connections, finishing with text of the majority decision. While each case is summarized neatly, the author is careful to draw lines connecting themes and decisions through the course of the book.

I highly recommend this book for students who need a deeper understanding of these cases or to anyone interested in being a little more knowledgeable about the evolution of the court.

[Dave Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good read. Gives the history behind the Court’s decision

A good read. Gives the history and background behind the Court’s decision. Also discusses the history of the US at that time, More evidence that the Constitution is a living document