History As It Happens: The Scopes Trial and Rural America
Hosted by Martin Di Caro
Release Date: July 18, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "The Scopes Trial and Rural America," host Martin Di Caro delves into the centennial reflection of the infamous Scopes Monkey Trial, drawing parallels between the cultural and political landscapes of 1925 and today. Featuring historian Michael Kazin from Georgetown University, the discussion navigates the enduring urban-rural divide and examines the Democratic Party's shifting influence in rural America.

Historical Background of the Scopes Trial

The Scopes Trial, officially known as State of Tennessee v. John Thomas Scopes, took place in Dayton, Tennessee, in 1925. John Scopes, a 24-year-old biology teacher, was charged with violating the Butler Act, a state law prohibiting the teaching of evolution in public schools. The trial attracted national attention, symbolizing the clash between modern science and traditional Christian beliefs.

Historian Michael Kazin provides context, highlighting that the trial was less about John Scopes himself and more about the broader cultural conflict. As Kazin states, “[The Scopes trial was a] momentous clash between modern science and traditional Christianity” (03:35).

William Jennings Bryan and Clarence Darrow: Central Figures

The trial featured two towering figures: William Jennings Bryan, a three-time Democratic presidential candidate and staunch Christian fundamentalist, who prosecuted Scopes; and Clarence Darrow, a renowned defense attorney and advocate for civil liberties, who defended Scopes.

Kazin notes, “Bryan was very much on the left in American politics” (11:46), emphasizing his progressive stances on labor unions and taxation. In contrast, Darrow was known as “the attorney for the damned” for his defense of socially marginalized individuals.

Media and Cultural Impact of the Trial

The Scopes Trial was a groundbreaking media event, being one of the first trials broadcast on the radio. This unprecedented exposure transformed it into a national spectacle. Kazin remarks, “The trial drew over a hundred reporters, a national radio audience, and became the touchstone for a debate that continues to rage” (05:11).

The trial also inspired Stanley Kramer's 1960 film Inherit the Wind, which dramatizes the events and highlights the performative aspects of the courtroom battles. Di Caro reflects on the film’s portrayal, stating, “No one questioned the guilt of John Scopes… Rather, for eight days at the trial, the two sides battled over the future of the country” (03:35).

Urban-Rural Divide and Political Shifts

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the decline of Democratic support in rural areas. Michael Kazin outlines the trend, noting, “In 1992, Democrats won 51% of the rural vote. By 2016, that number was just 35%” (01:14). This shift is further illustrated by President Biden winning less than 200 rural counties in 2020, approximately 10% of all rural counties.

Kazin attributes this decline to a mismatch in messaging and cultural disconnect. He explains, “There’s a messaging disconnect in Democratic politics with how to talk to rural voters” (01:27), highlighting the party's focus on cosmopolitan issues that may not resonate with rural constituents.

Parallels Between 1925 and Today’s Political Landscape

Drawing parallels between the Scopes Trial era and contemporary politics, Kazin emphasizes that cultural and economic divides have long influenced American political dynamics. He states, “The rural urban split, cultural split, and of course economic split has been with America for a long time” (10:30). This enduring division is evident in the Democratic Party's struggle to regain rural support, much like Bryan’s challenges against urban modernism in 1925.

Diar Coaro adds, “This is not about being an activist. It's about being a pragmatist” (40:51), underscoring the need for the Democratic Party to adopt pragmatic strategies to bridge the cultural gap.

Challenges for the Democratic Party in Connecting with Rural Voters

Kazin discusses the complexities the Democratic Party faces in reconnecting with rural America. He points out that modern cultural issues, such as LGBTQ rights and the teaching of evolution, continue to create friction. “[Democrats] have to figure out a way to respect cultural differences of the voters who they've lost” (37:01).

He further elaborates on the significance of local control over education in the United States, noting, “The American tradition… is for local control, local school boards or state school boards” (01:27). This decentralization makes it challenging for national policies to address diverse local values and beliefs.

Lessons from the Scopes Trial for Modern Politics

The centennial of the Scopes Trial serves as a reflection point for modern political strategists. Kazin suggests that understanding the historical context of cultural wars can inform current Democratic approaches: “Echoes from the trial of the century still resound in American culture and politics a full century later” (06:00).

By revisiting the strategies and outcomes of the Scopes Trial, the Democratic Party can better navigate the cultural divides that influence voter behavior today. As Kazin emphasizes, building a coalition that respects cultural differences while promoting economic and social welfare remains crucial for regaining rural support.

Notable Quotes

• William Jennings Bryan
  “Fanaticism and ignorance is forever busy and needs feeding.” (34:50)

• Michael Kazin
  “We have also educationally… it's not going to convince [evangelical Christian parents] to that.” (10:30)

• Martin De Caro
  “I love that line. Fanaticism and ignorance is forever busy and needs feeding.” (34:50)

• William Jennings Bryan
  “Gentlemen, I ask you, what do we care what a bunch of foreigners and city slickers think?” (22:59)

Conclusion

"The Scopes Trial and Rural America" provides a compelling examination of how historical cultural conflicts mirror today's political challenges. By understanding the roots of the urban-rural divide and the evolution of party dynamics, listeners gain valuable insights into the complexities of modern American politics. The episode underscores the importance of bridging cultural gaps and adapting political strategies to resonate with diverse voter bases, ensuring that the lessons of the past inform the path forward.

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