Overview
This lecture reviews the Supreme Court case McCulloch v. Maryland, focusing on its facts, constitutional principles, decision, and long-term impact on federalism in the United States.
Facts of the Case
- In 1816, Congress chartered the Second Bank of the United States, a federal institution.
- The Bank established branches in several states, including Baltimore, Maryland.
- Maryland passed a law taxing any bank not chartered by the state $15,000 per year.
- James McCulloch, cashier of the Baltimore branch, refused to pay the tax.
- The case escalated to the Supreme Court.
Constitutional Principles
- Maryland argued Congress had no constitutional right to create a bank, as this was not listed in Article 1 Section 8.
- McCulloch’s lawyers cited the Necessary and Proper Clause, which lets Congress make laws needed to execute its explicit powers.
- This clause allows for "implied powers"—powers not explicitly stated but necessary to fulfill constitutional duties.
Supreme Court Decision
- The Court ruled unanimously for McCulloch; the national bank was constitutional.
- Chief Justice John Marshall stated that if Congress’s action is not prohibited by the Constitution and supports its spirit, it is constitutional.
- The decision established the supremacy of federal law over state law.
Significance and Impact
- The ruling strengthened federal power over the states.
- It clarified that federal laws take precedence over conflicting state laws.
- McCulloch v. Maryland set a precedent for interpreting the balance of power in federalism.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Necessary and Proper Clause — Constitutional clause allowing Congress to make laws needed to execute its listed powers.
- Implied Powers — Powers not explicitly stated in the Constitution but necessary to carry out explicit powers.
- Supremacy Clause — States federal law is supreme over state laws when conflicts arise.
- Federalism — The division of power between national and state governments.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the list of other required Supreme Court cases for AP Government.
- Study the definitions of implied powers and the Necessary and Proper Clause for exams.