Classification 3: Overthrow or Destruction of the Government

This classification was established in 1941 to cover investigations under authority of the Hatch Act of 1939 and the Smith Act of 1940. These Acts made it illegal to advocate, abet, advise, or teach the desirability of overthrowing or destroying the Government of the United States or political subdivisions therein by force or violence; to print, publish, issue, or distribute written or printed matter advocating such actions; and to organize a group advocating such actions. In practice few cases are ever investigated under this classification. Routinely the FBI handles investigations in this area under Classifications 100: Subversive Matters, 105: Foreign Counterintelligence, and 176: Anti-Riot Laws.

NARA holdings for Classification 3: Overthrow or Destruction of the Government

The following records under Classification 3: Overthrow or Destruction of the Government are not yet described in NARA's online catalog. Please contact NARA's Special Access Program at specialaccess_FOIA@nara.gov with your reference request.

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