What did the ruling in Schneck vs. U.S. determine regarding free speech?

The ruling in Schenck v. United States established that free speech is not an absolute right and can be restricted under certain circumstances, particularly when the speech presents a "clear and present danger" to society. This landmark case arose during World War I when Charles Schenck distributed leaflets opposing the draft, arguing that it violated the Thirteenth Amendment. The U.S. Supreme Court, in its decision, articulated that speech that creates a significant risk of inciting illegal actions or causing harm to others is not protected under the First Amendment.

This ruling emphasized the need to balance individual freedoms with the need for public order and safety, leading to the understanding that while free speech is a fundamental principle, it is subject to limitations in specific situations where it could lead to harm or chaos. Therefore, the decision lays the groundwork for evaluating when and how speech can be curtailed in the interest of the larger community, showcasing the complex nature of free expression in legal contexts.