Most Popular Books by Clarence Darrow

Closing Arguments: Clarence Darrow on Religion, Law, and Society collects, for the first time, Darrow's thoughts on his three main preoccupations. The effect reveals a carefully conceived philosophy, expressed with delightful pungency and clarity. The provocative content of these writings still challenges us. His thoughts on social issues, especially on the dangers of religious fundamentalism, are uncannily prescient. A dry and even misanthropic humor lightens his essays, and his reflections on himself and his philosophy reveal a quiet dignity at the core of a man better known for provoking Americans during an era of unprecedented tumult. From the wry "Is the Human Race Getting Anywhere," to the scornful "Patriotism," and his elegaic summing up, "At Seventy-Two," Darrow's writing still stimulates and pleases. Darrow, son of a village undertaker and coffinmaker, rose to become one of America's greatest attorneys—and surely its most famous. The Ohio native gained fame for being at the center of momentous trials, including his 1924 defense of Leopold and Loeb and his defense of Darwinian principles in the 1925 Scopes "Monkey Trial." Some have traced Darrow's lifelong campaign against capital punishment to his boyhood terror at seeing a Civil War soldier buried—and no client of Darrow's was ever executed, not even black men who were charged with murder for defending themselves against a white mob. A rebel who always sided intellectually and emotionally with the minority, Darrow remains a figure to contend with sixty-seven years after his death. "Inside every lawyer is the wreck of a poet," Darrow once said. Closing Arguments demonstrates that, in his case, that statement is true.

Courtroom summations by “one of America’s greatest lawyers . . . this book is better than an entire college course in Rhetoric” (Thomas Geoghegan, author of The Secret Lives of Citizens and Only One Thing Can Save Us). A famous defender of the underdog, the oppressed, and the powerless, Clarence Darrow (1857–1938) is one of the true legends of the American legal system. His cases were many and various, but all were marked by his unequivocal sense of justice, as well as his penchant for representing infamous and unpopular clients, such as the Chicago thrill-killers Leopold and Loeb; Ossian Sweet, the African American doctor charged with murder after fighting off a violent, white mob in Detroit; and John T. Scopes, the teacher on trial in the famous Scopes Monkey Trial. Published for the first time in 1957, Attorney for the Damned collects Darrow’s most influential summations and supplements them with scene-setting explanations and comprehensive notes by Arthur Weinberg. Darrow confronts issues that remain relevant over half a century after his death: First Amendment rights, capital punishment, and the separation of church and state. With an insightful forward by Justice William O. Douglas, this volume serves as a powerful reminder of Darrow’s relevance today. “Clarence Darrow [was] perhaps the most effective courtroom opponent of cant, bigotry, and special privilege that our country has produced . . . The ghastly comedy of his deadpan interrogation of William Jennings Bryan on the origin of man in the Scopes case is particularly recommended.” —The New Yorker “More illuminating as well as more dramatic than anything that has yet appeared about [Darrow].” —Herald Tribune Book Review

In "The Story of My Life," Clarence Darrow presents a captivating autobiography that intertwines his personal experiences with his philosophical reflections on justice, morality, and human rights. Written in a candid and engaging style, the narrative encapsulates his profound observations as a prominent defense attorney, revealing the complexities of the legal system and the societal prejudices he fiercely challenged. Darrow's eloquence and wit bring to life the crucial moments that shaped his career, all while contextualizing the broader socio-political environment of early 20th-century America, marked by social upheaval and an evolving understanding of civil liberties. Clarence Darrow (1857-1938) stands as a pivotal figure in American legal history, known for his impassioned advocacy for the underprivileged and his staunch opposition to capital punishment. His upbringing in a Midwestern family deeply influenced his values, driving him toward a legal career that sought to defend those marginalized by society. This memoir not only highlights his key trials, such as the Scopes Monkey Trial, but also offers insights into the ideologies and experiences that molded his enduring legacy as a champion of social justice. For readers intrigued by the intersection of law and human rights, "The Story of My Life" serves as both an inspiring memoir and a thought-provoking examination of the ideals that underpin justice. Darrow's unique narrative voice invites readers to reflect on their own beliefs and the ongoing struggle for equality, making this work essential for anyone interested in the evolution of American legal thought and civil liberties.

This volume presents a selection of 500 letters by Clarence Darrow, the pre-eminent courtroom lawyer of the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. Randall Tietjen selected these letters from over 2,200 letters in archives around the country, as well as from one remarkable find—the kind of thing historians dream about: a cache of about 330 letters by Darrow hidden away in the basement of Darrow’s granddaughter’s house. This collection provides the first scholarly edition of Darrow’s letters, expertly annotated and including a large amount of previously unknown material and hard-to-locate letters. Because Darrow was a gifted writer and led a fascinating life, the letters are a delight to read. This volume also presents a major introduction by the editor, along with a chronology of Darrow’s life, and brief biographical sketches of the important individuals who appear in the letters.

Clarence Darrow was one of this country's most influential lawyers. His 1925 defense of John Scopes in Dayton Tennessee's Monkey Trial was made famous by the motion picture Inherit the Wind. In this excellent book on Crime, he sets forth his thoughts on numerous subjects from 'What is Crime, ' to Sex Crimes, Homicide, the Convict, Pardons, and Remedies. Loaded with information for courtroom arguments, this book is a must-read for any attorney or law student, and will also enlighten any person interested in our criminal law justice system.

The celebrated American lawyer Clarence Darrow was renowned for his spirited, ruthlessly logical defense of populist causes and controversial ideas. Even today, Darrow’s words continue to frame public discussion about our civil liberties and our religious and civic life. In this timely volume, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Edward J. Larson and ethicist Jack Marshall assemble a broad and rich collection of the iconic lawyer’s words and writings–opening statements, trial arguments, lectures–accompanied by excerpts from his memoir and annotated with expert commentary. These selections showcase the mesmerizing power of Darrow’s passions and ideals, which have lost none of their impact or immediacy with the passage of time.

Explore the thought-provoking essays of one of America's greatest legal minds with "Clarence Darrow Essays" by Clarence Darrow. In this compelling collection, Darrow shares his insightful perspectives on a wide range of social, political, and legal issues, offering readers a glimpse into his brilliant intellect and unwavering commitment to justice. As you delve into "Clarence Darrow Essays," prepare to be challenged and enlightened by Darrow's incisive commentary on topics ranging from civil liberties and criminal justice to freedom of speech and the rights of the individual. Darrow's eloquent prose and keen observations shed light on the complexities of the human condition and the enduring struggle for equality and fairness. But here's the question that resonates throughout the pages: How can we apply Darrow's timeless wisdom to confront the pressing challenges of our time? Could it be that his ideas hold the key to creating a more just and compassionate society? Embark on a journey of intellectual exploration within the pages of "Clarence Darrow Essays," where each essay offers a glimpse into the mind of a true champion of civil liberties and human rights. Darrow's impassioned advocacy for the marginalized and oppressed serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of speaking truth to power. Are you ready to engage with the ideas of a legal titan who dared to challenge the status quo? Immerse yourself in the provocative essays of "Clarence Darrow Essays," and let Darrow's passionate advocacy and sharp wit inspire you to think critically and act courageously in pursuit of a more just and equitable world. Don't miss your chance to explore the intellectual legacy of a legal icon. Order your copy of "Clarence Darrow Essays" today and join the conversation on the enduring principles of justice and freedom.

His address to the jury at his trial, with a brief history of the events that led up to the trial.

The defendants were charged with conspiracy to injure the business of the Paine Lumber Company and were tried in the Municipal Court of Oshkosh.

"In these wide-ranging essays, Darrow attacks beliefs in the inerrancy of the Bible, the immortality of the soul, miracles, and heaven as being completely at odds with human experience and science. The life best lived, Darrow contends, is one that is ruled by reason, uncluttered by dogmatism, and aided by compassion for our fellow human beings." -- Publisher's description

Clarence Darrow's 'A Persian Pearl, and Other Essays' is a collection of thought-provoking essays that delve into various social and political issues of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Written in a compelling and persuasive style, Darrow's essays showcase his deep understanding of human nature and his skill in argumentation. Each essay offers a unique perspective on topics such as justice, morality, and the role of the individual in society, making this book a valuable insight into the intellectual climate of the time. Darrow's literary style is characterized by its clarity, logic, and emotional depth, which captivates the reader and encourages critical thinking.Clarence Darrow, a renowned lawyer and prominent figure in the American legal history, was known for his passionate defense of civil liberties and social justice. His experiences in the courtroom and his advocacy for the underprivileged are reflected in the themes explored in 'A Persian Pearl'. Darrow's commitment to truth and his fearless pursuit of justice are evident throughout the essays, making this collection a testament to his enduring legacy.I highly recommend 'A Persian Pearl, and Other Essays' to readers interested in exploring the intersection of literature, philosophy, and social issues. Darrow's insightful essays offer timeless reflections on the complexities of human existence and the pursuit of a more just society, making this book a must-read for anyone seeking intellectual enrichment and moral enlightenment.

The defendants were tried in the Criminal Court of Cook County, Illinois, for the kidnapping for ransom and for the murder of Robert Franks.