* 1973: Roe v. Wade. Stating that a constitutional “right to privacy” exists that protects a woman’s decision to have an abortion, the U.S. Supreme Court legalizes abortion on demand. The Court permits states to outlaw abortions from viability until birth (third trimester) except when necessary to preserve the mother’s life or health.
* 1973: Doe v. Bolton. The Supreme Court defines “health” (of the mother) to include all factors - physical, emotional, psychological, familial and the woman’s age. This basically allows a woman to have an abortion at any time during her pregnancy and for any reason. Source: American Life League - The history of abortion in the United States http://www.all.org/abort.htm sj