Blaine Amendment

Blaine Amendment refers to a failed amendment to the United States Constitution proposed by James G. Blaine, then Speaker of the House, in 1875. The amendment sought to prohibit public funds from being used for religious schools. The amendment did not pass at the federal level, but was adopted in various forms by 38 states.

Background

The Blaine Amendment emerged during a period of anti-Catholic sentiment in the United States. Many Protestants, who were the majority at the time, were concerned about the growth of Catholic schools and the potential influence of the Pope. They feared that Catholic schools would undermine the public school system and promote allegiance to a foreign power.

Proposal and Failure

In 1875, James G. Blaine proposed the amendment to the United States Constitution. The amendment stated that no money raised by taxation in any state for the support of public schools, or derived from any public fund, shall ever be under the control of any religious sect. The amendment was passed by the House but failed to pass the Senate.

State Blaine Amendments

Despite the failure of the Blaine Amendment at the federal level, many states adopted similar amendments in their state constitutions. These amendments, known as "Baby Blaine Amendments", prohibit public funds from being used for religious schools. As of 2020, 38 states have some form of a Blaine Amendment in their state constitution.

Legacy and Controversy

The Blaine Amendment and its state counterparts have been a source of controversy and legal battles. Supporters argue that these amendments uphold the principle of separation of church and state, while critics argue that they are rooted in anti-Catholic bigotry and violate the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment.

See Also

• James G. Blaine
• Separation of church and state in the United States
• First Amendment to the United States Constitution