Required Court Cases and Foundational Documents

Flashcards of the Required Court Cases and Foundational Documents

Marbury v. Madison (1803)

The Supreme Court established judicial review, empowering the judiciary to declare laws unconstitutional.

McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)

The Supreme Court affirmed the constitutionality of the Second Bank, establishing implied powers and federal law supremacy.

Brown v. Board of Education (1954)

The Supreme Court ruled racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional, overturning 'separate but equal.'

Gideon v. Wainwright (1963)

The Supreme Court ruled that the Sixth Amendment's right to counsel applies to state courts.

Tinker v. Des Moines Independent School District (1969)

The Supreme Court affirmed that students retain their First Amendment rights in schools, provided expression doesn't cause disruption.

Roe v. Wade (1973)

The Supreme Court recognized a woman's right to privacy, including the right to choose whether to terminate a pregnancy.

United States v. Lopez (1995)

The Supreme Court ruled that the Gun-Free School Zones Act exceeded Congress's power under the Commerce Clause.

Baker v. Carr (1961)

The Supreme Court ruled that federal courts could review state legislative apportionment cases.

New York Times v. United States (1971)

The Supreme Court ruled against the Nixon administration's attempt to prevent the publication of the 'Pentagon Papers.'

Engel v. Vitale (1962)

The Supreme Court ruled that mandatory, state-composed prayer in public schools violates the Establishment Clause.

Wisconsin v. Yoder (1972)

The Supreme Court ruled that the First Amendment's Free Exercise Clause protects the right of Amish parents to refuse compulsory education.

Schenck v. United States (1919)

The Supreme Court established the 'clear and present danger' test, limiting free speech during wartime.

McDonald v. Chicago (2010)

The Supreme Court ruled that the Second Amendment applies to state and local governments.

Shaw v. Reno (1993)

The Supreme Court ruled that redistricting based solely on race violates the Fourteenth Amendment.

Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission (FEC) (2010)

The Supreme Court ruled that the First Amendment prohibits government restrictions on independent political expenditures by corporations.

Federalist #10

A large, representative republic is the best way to control the "dangers of faction" and protect liberty.

Brutus No 1

Warned against the dangers of a strong central government, advocating for weaker national government and stronger state powers.

The Declaration of Independence

Summarized the colonists' motivations for seeking independence.

The Articles of Confederation

Established a 'league of friendship' among the 13 states, emphasizing state sovereignty.

The Constitution of the United States

Outlines the structure and powers of the government, protecting individual rights, and serving as the supreme law of the land.

Federalist 51

Addresses means by which appropriate checks and balances can be created in government and also advocates a separation of powers.

Letter from Birmingham Jail

Argues for the necessity of nonviolent direct action to fight injustice.

Federalist 70

Alexander Hamilton argues for a strong, single executive (president) rather than a council or committee.

Federalist 78

Alexander Hamilton defends the judiciary as the "least dangerous" branch