Key Supreme Court Cases and Constitutional Principles

A collection of flashcards summarizing key Supreme Court cases along with their constitutional implications.

McCulloch v Maryland (1819)

Established that the federal government can create a bank and states cannot tax it, reinforcing national supremacy.

US v Lopez (1995)

Ruled that the federal government overstepped its bounds under the Commerce Clause by creating the Gun-Free School Zones Act.

Baker v Carr (1962)

Held that federal courts can review redistricting cases and mandated equal representation in electoral districts.

Shaw v Reno (1995)

Determined that while states can consider race in redistricting, it cannot be the predominant factor.

Marbury v Madison (1803)

Established the principle of judicial review, confirming the courts' power to evaluate the constitutionality of legislative and executive actions.

Brown v Board of Ed. (1954)

Ruled that separate educational facilities are inherently unequal, ending legal segregation in schools.

Engle v Vitale (1962)

Declared that school-sponsored non-denominational prayer violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment.

Gideon v Wainwright (1963)

Affirmed the right to counsel in criminal cases, requiring states to provide attorneys for defendants who cannot afford one.

McDonald v Chicago (2010)

Ruled that the Second Amendment's right to bear arms is applicable to the states through the Fourteenth Amendment.

NYT v United States (1971)

Allowed the publication of the Pentagon Papers, stating that prior restraint is limited by the First Amendment unless national security is at risk.

Roe v Wade (1973)

Established a woman's right to choose an abortion under the right to privacy, with restrictions based on the trimester.

Schenck v United States (1919)

Determined that free speech can be limited during wartime if it presents a 'clear and present danger' to national security.

Tinker v Des Moines (1969)

Confirmed that students retain their First Amendment rights to free speech in schools.

Wisconsin v Yoder (1972)

Held that the state cannot require Amish children to attend school beyond eighth grade, valuing religious freedoms.

Citizens United v FEC (2010)

Ruled that political speech cannot be restricted, allowing corporations similar rights as individuals in campaign contributions.