McCulloh v. Maryland (Expansion of Federal Power) - Vocabulary Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering key constitutional concepts from the McCulloh v. Maryland notes, focusing on federal power, implied powers, and federalism.

McCulloh v. Maryland

Landmark Supreme Court case that upheld Congress's implied powers and the supremacy of the federal government; held that Congress can charter a national bank and that states cannot tax the federal government.

Necessary and Proper Clause

Constitutional provision allowing Congress to pass laws needed to exercise its enumerated powers; enables implied powers and strengthens federal authority (also called the Elastic Clause).

Implied powers

Powers not explicitly listed in the Constitution but inferred as necessary to carry out enumerated powers under the Necessary and Proper Clause.

Enumerated powers

Powers specifically listed for Congress in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution.

Supremacy Clause

Constitutional clause (Article VI) stating that federal law takes precedence over conflicting state laws.

"Power to tax is the power to destroy"

Principle used to argue that allowing states to tax the federal government would undermine federal authority, supporting federal supremacy.

Article I, Section 8

Constitutional provision that lists Congress's enumerated powers and provides the basis for decisions like establishing a national bank.

National Bank

Bank chartered by Congress; central issue in McCulloh v. Maryland; its creation was upheld, illustrating federal power over states.

Federalism

Division of power between national and state governments; McCulloh v. Maryland exemplifies the expansion of federal power within this framework.