McCulloch v. Maryland

Definition

McCulloch v. Maryland is a landmark Supreme Court case from 1819 that established the supremacy of federal law over state law and confirmed the implied powers of Congress. The decision reinforced the concept of federalism by ruling that the federal government had the authority to create a national bank, which states could not tax, thus asserting the dominance of federal institutions in matters of national significance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The case arose when the state of Maryland attempted to tax the Second Bank of the United States, which led to a legal challenge by bank cashier James McCulloch.
2. Chief Justice John Marshall's ruling emphasized that states cannot control or tax federal entities, thus reinforcing the power of the national government.
3. The decision affirmed the doctrine of implied powers, indicating that Congress has powers beyond those specifically listed in the Constitution.
4. This case set a precedent for federal supremacy and has been cited in numerous subsequent cases involving federal versus state authority.
5. McCulloch v. Maryland is considered a foundational case in American constitutional law, shaping the relationship between state and federal governments.

Review Questions

• How did McCulloch v. Maryland impact the balance of power between federal and state governments?
  • McCulloch v. Maryland significantly altered the balance of power by affirming that federal law takes precedence over state law. The Supreme Court ruled that states cannot impose taxes on federal entities, establishing a clear boundary on state authority when it comes to national institutions. This decision bolstered the federal government's power, enabling it to operate independently from state interference.
• Analyze how the ruling in McCulloch v. Maryland reflects the principles of federalism.
  • The ruling in McCulloch v. Maryland illustrates the principles of federalism by highlighting the relationship between national and state governments. The Supreme Court's decision recognized that while states have certain powers, these are subordinate to federal authority when it comes to executing constitutional functions. This case established that Congress could exercise implied powers necessary to fulfill its role, thereby reinforcing a stronger central government within a federal system.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of McCulloch v. Maryland on American governance and its implications for future legal interpretations regarding state rights.
  • The long-term effects of McCulloch v. Maryland have been profound in shaping American governance. It established a strong precedent for federal supremacy that has influenced countless cases regarding state rights and federal authority. As issues surrounding states’ rights continued to emerge, this case provided a legal foundation for upholding national interests against state legislation, making it a pivotal reference point in debates about federal power and individual liberties throughout American history.

Related terms

Supremacy Clause: A provision in Article VI of the U.S. Constitution that establishes federal laws and treaties as the supreme law of the land, taking precedence over state laws.

Implied Powers: Powers not explicitly stated in the Constitution but inferred from its necessary and proper clause, allowing Congress to carry out its enumerated powers.

Federalism: A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states.