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Mcholluch v. Maryland
Supreme Court case that established that congress has the power to all that is "necessary and proper" to enforce its powers, including opening a Federal Bank. It further ruled that States cannot tax an arm of the Federal government. This ruling opened the door to many years of further power expansion of the federal government. -
Gibbons v Ogden
A Supreme Court case that ruled that a federal law governing interstate waters overrides a conflicting State law. This ruling expanded federal powers immensely. This ruling allowed congress to regulate almost all commerce. -
End of the Civil War
After the civil war, the federal government expanded even more. This further shifted the balance of rights in favor of the federal government. The federal government started social programs, such as widow's benefits. -
Roosevelt court packing threat
President Roosevelt threatened to pack the court, in response to the Supreme Court striking down his "new deal" legislation. The Supreme Court then backed off striking down further legislation. This paved the way for unprecedented expansion of the Federal Government. -
United States v. Lopez
This decision ruled that Congress cannot ban guns in schools across the country. The decision is based on the fact that banning guns has nothing to do with commerce. This decision swung the pendulum back towards states rights. -
United States v. Morrison
This ruling further limited Congress's authority under the commerce clause. The Court ruled that Congress exceeded its authority in passing a law for individual to sue aggressors of sexual violence. -
Obergefell v. Hodges
Supreme Court decision that forced states to recognize gay marriages performed in other states. This ruling solidified the power of the "full and faith and credit clause" of the Constitution.
