Clarence Darrow

American attorney and social commentator Clarence Darrow (1857-1938) is most known for his defense of contentious cases, support of civil freedoms, and advancement of progressive ideals. His legal career, which he started in the late 1800s after being born in Ohio, gained a reputation for his competence in representing labor organizations and other controversial clients. In addition, Darrow was a vocal opponent of the death sentence and an advocate of humanism and scientific reasoning. He took...See more

American attorney and social commentator Clarence Darrow (1857-1938) is most known for his defense of contentious cases, support of civil freedoms, and advancement of progressive ideals. His legal career, which he started in the late 1800s after being born in Ohio, gained a reputation for his competence in representing labor organizations and other controversial clients. In addition, Darrow was a vocal opponent of the death sentence and an advocate of humanism and scientific reasoning. He took part in a number of well-known trials, such as the Leopold and Loeb trial in 1924 and the Scopes Monkey Trial in 1925. Darrow's opinions on crime and justice were influenced by his support for understanding the social and economic causes of criminal conduct and his opposition to the severe punishments that were often used at the time. His book "Crime: Its Cause and Treatment" (1922), which included his opinions on the criminal justice system and the necessity for change, was one of several that he penned. See less