required supreme court cases

McCulloch v. Maryland

Confirmed the supremacy of federal law over state law and upheld Congress’s implied powers under the Necessary and Proper Clause.

What was the main idea of McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)?

Strengthened federal power.

United States v. Lopez

Limited Congress’s power under the Commerce Clause by ruling that carrying a gun in a school zone is not an economic activity.

What was the main idea of United States v. Lopez (1995)?

Set boundaries on federal power and reinforced states’ rights.

Baker v. Carr

Established the principle of 'one person, one vote' by allowing federal courts to intervene in state redistricting cases.

What was the main idea of Baker v. Carr (1962)?

Strengthened judicial oversight of fair representation.

Shaw v. Reno

Ruled that racial gerrymandering is unconstitutional if race is the predominant factor in creating districts.

What was the main idea of Shaw v. Reno (1993)?

Limited race-based districting to protect equal representation.