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John W. Butler, both farmer and head of the World Christian Fundamentalist Association, succeeded in having the Butler Act passed in Tennessee. The Butler Act banned teachings of evolution as well as going against the Bible in schools.

The state Legislatures did not believe the Butler act would be enforced or in any way affect schools. Also, the trial was a publicity stunt for Dayton, Tennessee, as it was broadcasted all over the radio at the time.

Although Scopes was found guilty and fined $100 dollars (roughly $1,345 in 2015), this was the start of a debate between religion and science that some would say still continues. Eventually, religion would be set apart to a specific learning environment.