A.P. GOV

McCulloch v. Maryland

This case addressed the conflict between state and federal authority. The Supreme Court ruled that a state could not tax the federal government, affirming Congress's implied powers to charter a national bank under the Necessary and Proper Clause.

United States v. Lopez

This case examined whether the possession of a firearm in school zones was regulated by Congress under the Commerce Clause. The ruling determined that the Gun-Free School Zones Act was unconstitutional as it did not relate to interstate commerce, limiting Congress's powers under this clause.

Engel v. Vitale

This case involved school-sponsored prayers and the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. The Supreme Court ruled that even voluntary prayer in public schools was unconstitutional, as it represented government endorsement of religion.

Wisconsin v. Yoder

The case centered on the rights of Amish parents to educate their children according to their religious beliefs. The Supreme Court ruled that the state's interest in compulsory education was outweighed by the parents' right to freely exercise their religion.

Tinker v. Des Moines

This case focused on student free speech rights. The Supreme Court ruled that students wearing black armbands to protest the Vietnam War were exercising their First Amendment rights, and that such symbolic speech did not disrupt educational activities.

New York Times Co v. United States

This case dealt with prior restraint and freedom of the press. The Supreme Court ruled that the Nixon Administration's attempt to block the publication of classified materials was unconstitutional, affirming the press's right to publish under the First Amendment.

Schenck v. United States

The case examined the limits of free speech during wartime. The Supreme Court ruled that distributing anti-draft leaflets constituted a clear and present danger, thus allowing the government to restrict speech under the Espionage Act.

Gideon v. Wainwright

This case focused on the right to counsel. The Supreme Court ruled that the Sixth Amendment's guarantee of counsel is applicable to state courts via the Fourteenth Amendment, ensuring defendants have legal representation in felony cases.

McDonald v. Chicago

This case analyzed the Second Amendment's applicability at the state level. The Supreme Court ruled that the right to bear arms for self-defense is fundamental, and thus states cannot implement outright bans on handguns.

Brown v. Board of Education

This landmark case addressed racial segregation in public schools. The Supreme Court ruled that 'separate but equal' educational facilities were inherently unequal, leading to the desegregation of schools across the nation.

Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission

This case focused on the impact of campaign finance laws on free speech. The Supreme Court ruled that corporate funding of independent political broadcasts cannot be limited, thus establishing the significance of Super PACs as entities that can raise and spend unlimited funds for political advocacy, viewing such spending as protected political speech under the First Amendment.

Baker v. Carr

This case addressed redistricting and the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. The Supreme Court ruled that the issue of districting was justiciable, allowing federal courts to intervene in cases of unequal district populations.

Shaw v. Reno

This case dealt with racial gerrymandering. The Supreme Court ruled that unusually shaped districts created to enhance minority voting power could violate the Equal Protection Clause, as they suggested a racial motive.

Marbury v. Madison

This foundational case established the principle of judicial review. The Supreme Court ruled that it had the authority to invalidate laws conflicting with the Constitution, establishing the judiciary's role in reviewing legislation.

Article 1 of the Constitution

Establishes the Legislative Branch, outlining the structure and powers of Congress, which is divided into the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Article 2 of the Constitution

Establishes the Executive Branch, defining the role, powers, and responsibilities of the President and the Vice President.

Article 3 of the Constitution

Establishes the Judicial Branch, outlining the structure and powers of the federal court system, including the Supreme Court.

Article 4 of the Constitution

Addresses the relationships among states and between states and the federal government, including the Full Faith and Credit Clause.

Article 5 of the Constitution

Outlines the process for amending the Constitution, allowing for changes or additions to be made.

Article 6 of the Constitution

Contains the Supremacy Clause, establishing that the Constitution, federal laws, and treaties are the supreme law of the land.

Article 7 of the Constitution

Details the ratification process of the Constitution, requiring the agreement of nine states for it to take effect.

Federalist Paper 10

Written by James Madison, this paper argues that a large republic can best control factions and prevent any single group from dominating the political landscape, as a diversity of interests will prevent tyranny by a majority.

Federalist Paper 51

Discusses the process of constitutional amendments and informs on how the Constitution intentionally allows for change over time. It emphasizes the need for an enduring checks and balances system.

Federalist Paper 70

Alexander Hamilton advocates for a strong executive leader, arguing that a unitary executive is essential for good governance and effective execution of laws, as opposed to a plural executive.

Federalist Paper 78

This paper, authored by Alexander Hamilton, defends the judiciary's independence by asserting that it is the least dangerous branch, holding no power over the sword or the purse but serving as a check on the legislative branch.

Brutus 1

This paper argues against the proposed Constitution, citing concerns over the potential for a powerful central government to diminish state sovereignty and erode individual liberties, suggesting a small republic is preferable for preserving rights.