Lecture Notes on Landmark Supreme Court Cases

Vocabulary flashcards defining key terms and summarizing important cases discussed in the lecture notes.

Marbury v. Madison

Established the principle of judicial review, giving federal courts the power to determine the constitutionality of laws and executive orders.

Judicial Review

The power of federal courts to determine the constitutionality of laws passed by the legislative branch and orders issued by the executive branch.

McCulloch v. Maryland

Affirmed the implied powers of Congress through the Elastic Clause and established the supremacy of federal laws over state laws.

Elastic Clause

Grants Congress the power to make all laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers.

Supremacy Clause

States that the Constitution and federal laws are superior to state constitutions and laws.

Schenck v. U.S.

Established the 'clear and present danger' test, limiting free speech during wartime or when it poses a threat to national security.

Clear and Present Danger Test

A doctrine establishing that the government can restrict speech that incites violence or chaos.

Brown v. Board of Education

Ruled that segregation of public schools by race violates the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment, overturning Plessy v. Ferguson.

Baker v. Carr

Established that federal courts have the authority to rule on cases about the fairness of how states divide voting districts.

Equal Protection Clause

A clause in the 14th Amendment requiring states to give all people equal protection under the law.