What was the purpose of the American Civil Liberties Union when it was founded in 1920?

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) was founded in 1920 with the primary purpose of protecting civil liberties through legal challenges. This organization was established in response to the widespread suppression of civil liberties during World War I, particularly as the government enforced laws and policies that restricted free speech and other basic rights, like the Espionage Act and the Sedition Act. The ACLU aimed to safeguard individual rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution, especially during times of crisis when such liberties might be threatened.

The ACLU's founding principles emphasize the importance of defending the rights of individuals against government overreach, making it a key player in legal battles regarding free speech, assembly, the right to privacy, and more, throughout American history. This focus on civil liberties distinguishes the ACLU from organizations that may focus narrowly on specific social issues like racial equality, labor rights, or women's rights, although the ACLU has also engaged in advocacy on those fronts within the broader context of civil liberties.