U.S. Supreme Court Cases and Federal Powers: McCulloch v. Maryland & Lopez

What was the significance of McCulloch v. Maryland?

It established the Necessary and Proper Clause, allowing Congress to use implied powers to carry out its functions.

What does the Necessary and Proper Clause allow?

It allows Congress to use any means appropriate, convenient, and suited to its ends.

What is the Supremacy Clause?

It establishes the Constitution and federal laws as the supreme law of the land, overriding state laws.

What was the outcome of United States v. Lopez?

The Supreme Court ruled that the Gun-Free School Zones Act of 1990 was unconstitutional.

What clause was central to the ruling in United States v. Lopez?

The Commerce Clause, which grants Congress the power to regulate trade between states.

What are exclusive powers in the context of federalism?

Powers specifically granted to the national government via the U.S. Constitution.

What are delegated powers?

Legal powers explicitly stated in the Constitution, such as the power to declare war and regulate foreign commerce.

What are implied powers?

Powers that can be inferred from the Constitution, often derived from the Elastic Clause.

What are reserved powers?

Powers held by state governments that are not delegated to the federal government, as stated in the 10th Amendment.

What are concurrent powers?

Governmental authorities shared by both the federal government and state governments.

What is revenue sharing?

The distribution of a portion of one government's tax income to another, often from federal to state or local governments.

What are block grants?

Large sums of federal money given to state and local governments for broad purposes.

What are categorical grants?

Federal funds given to state or local governments for specific, narrowly defined purposes with strict conditions.

What are mandates in the context of federalism?

Requirements imposed by the federal government on state or local governments without providing funding.

What is the Due Process Clause of the 14th Amendment?

It ensures that no state can deprive a person of life, liberty, or property without due process of law.

What does the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment guarantee?

It ensures fair treatment under the law and prohibits discrimination.

What are civil liberties?

Natural rights that the government cannot infringe upon unless forfeited through a heinous act.

What are civil rights?

Rights that ensure fair treatment under the law, often related to equality.

What role do precedents play in the judicial system?

They guide future cases by establishing legal principles based on previous rulings.

What is the purpose of federalism in the U.S. government?

To divide powers between the national and state governments, allowing for shared governance.

What is the significance of the Elastic Clause?

It allows Congress to stretch its powers to meet the needs of the nation, enabling implied powers.

What is the relationship between federal and state powers?

Federal powers are supreme, but states retain powers not specifically delegated to the federal government.