For most of history, the world was ruled by kings. Kings were special because no matter what they did, they could never go on trialA trial is where two people or two groups of people argue in a court. or be removed from power.

American presidentsThe only one she did not actually meet was Lyndon B Johnson., however, have always been different. But perhaps not much longer.

On 1 July, the US Supreme CourtThe highest court within the hierarchy of courts in most legal jurisdictions. ruled that the president cannot be prosecutedThe start of legal proceedings that aim to prove that someone has committed a crime. for any action they take as part of their official dutiesResponsibilities, or tasks you must complete as part of a job. as president.

They could be charged for any actions they did outside of their presidential duties. But the Court says it should always be assumed the president is immuneAble to avoid particular infection. until proven otherwise.

The Court says the president needs immunity to stop the government that follows from targeting them over their politics.

But opponents say the decision changes the whole US political system.

Some, including supreme court justicesThe nine members of the Supreme Court are known as justices. One is appointed to be their head, or Chief Justice. who did not agree with the ruling, fear that a president could even get away with ordering that other politicians be killed. Potentially, they could also take bribesPersuade someone to do something by giving them a gift, often money. or organise a military takeover.

Has the Supreme Court put him above the law?

Yes! All Trump has to do now is say "as President, I command you to..." before any sentence, and he can do what he likes. He will be a dictatorA ruler who has total power, and has often taken power by force. .

No! We are living in a divided age. This new ruling stops new presidents from accusing old ones of taking part in crimes. The president needs to be protected.