Required Court Cases and Documents

McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)

A Supreme Court case that established the implied powers of Congress and confirmed the supremacy of federal laws over state laws.

Necessary and Proper Clause

Allows Congress to create laws required for the exercise of its legitimate powers.

Supremacy Clause

Establishes that federal laws take precedence over state laws.

U.S. v. Lopez (1995)

A Supreme Court ruling that limited Congress's power under the Commerce Clause by declaring the Gun-Free School Zones Act unconstitutional.

Commerce Clause

Gives Congress the power to regulate trade among the states.

Shaw v. Reno (1993)

A case that ruled race cannot be the predominant factor in drawing congressional districts.

Equal Protection Clause

Part of the 14th Amendment that prohibits states from denying any person equal protection under the law.

Baker v. Carr (1962)

Established that courts can review redistricting cases to ensure equal representation.

One person, one vote

The principle that all citizens' votes should carry equal weight in elections.

Citizens United v. FEC (2010)

A Supreme Court decision that ruled political spending by corporations and unions is a form of protected free speech.

First Amendment

Protects freedoms related to speech, assembly, press, religion, and petition.

Marbury v. Madison (1803)

Established the principle of judicial review, allowing courts to invalidate laws that conflict with the Constitution.

Judicial Review

The power of courts to assess whether a law is in compliance with the constitution.

New York Times v. U.S. (1971)

Supreme Court case that ruled prior restraint unconstitutional without a direct threat to national security.

Prior Restraint

Government action that prohibits speech or other expression before it can take place.

Articles of Confederation

The first governing document of the U.S., creating a weak central government.

U.S. Constitution

The foundational legal document that established the framework of the United States government.

Brutus No. 1

An Anti-Federalist essay arguing against the ratification of the Constitution due to fears of federal overreach.

Federalist No. 10

An essay by Madison advocating for a large republic to control factions.

Checks and Balances

A system that ensures that no one branch of government becomes too powerful.

Declaration of Independence

Document declaring the 13 American colonies free from British rule, outlining natural rights like life and liberty.

Federalist No. 70

An essay by Hamilton arguing for a strong, single executive as necessary for effective governance.

Federalist No. 51

An essay by Madison explaining the system of checks and balances and the separation of powers.