Write a 5-paragaph essay explaining why Edward Snowden is "Patriot of Free Press" and also a "Traitor under the Espionage Act." Then give your own opinion of this controversial figure.

As a patriot, Edward Snowden can be viewed as standing with and for the people of America against a corrupt government. Releasing information about the NSA and what they were collecting on all citizens of the US allowed for citizens to know they were being watched as potential criminals. However, as a traitor Snowden violated his position at the NSA and revealed classified information to the entire public. By doing this, he potentially put the scanning efforts of the NSA in jeopardy and revealed state information to foreign enemies. Snowden has revealed the bigger issue of privacy vs. safety when comes to the government role.