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posted ago by winn ago by winn +36 / -0

The People v. (John) Ruggles, 1811:

A sound morality is the basis of all social order and the foundation of all good government. It is the foundation of all good government, and it is the foundation of all good law. Whatever strikes at the root of Christianity tends manifestly to the dissolution of civil government. The authorities show, that blasphemy against God, and profane ridicule of Christ or the Holy Scriptures, are offenses punishable at common law. ...because it tends to corrupt the morals of the people, and to destroy good order.