Federalism, Reserved Powers, and McCulloch v. Maryland (Vocabulary)

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering reserved powers, federalism, police powers, and the McCulloch v. Maryland case concepts referenced in the notes.

Reserved powers

Powers not delegated to the federal government in the Constitution are reserved to the states (as stated in the Tenth Amendment).

Tenth Amendment

Constitutional clause that reserves to the states or the people any powers not delegated to the federal government.

Federalism

The division of power between national and state governments, balancing national authority with state sovereignty.

Police powers

State authority to regulate for public safety, health, morals, and welfare, including law enforcement actions.

Education as a state reserve power

The idea that decisions about education policy (attendance requirements, funding, curriculum) are determined by the states.

McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)

Supreme Court case that upheld the legitimacy of a national bank and reinforced the idea of implied federal powers and federal supremacy over state laws.

Implied powers

Powers not explicitly listed in the Constitution but inferred as necessary to carry out enumerated federal powers.

Enumerated (expressed) powers

Powers specifically granted to the federal government by the Constitution.

Nationalization of state authority

When the federal government attempts to take over or override state or local powers and policies.