The Sedition Act refers to laws that criminalize speech or actions deemed to incite rebellion against the authority of the government. The most notable version was enacted in the United States in 1798, during the presidency of John Adams. It aimed to suppress dissent and limit criticism of the federal government, particularly against the Federalist Party. The act made it illegal to publish false or malicious statements about the government or its officials. It faced significant opposition and was seen as a violation of the First Amendment, which protects freedom of speech. The law was eventually allowed to expire in 1801, highlighting the ongoing debate over civil liberties.