Landmark Cases
Which Supreme Court case established the principle of judicial review?
Marbury v. Madison (1803)
Which two political parties dominate the modern American political system?
The Democratic Party and the Republican Party
Which amendment has never been the issue of a Supreme Court decision?
3rd
What does the term federalism mean?
A system of government where power is divided between the national and state governments.
What controversial Supreme Court case was recently overturned bringing the issue back to the states?
Roe V Wade
What was the central issue in Mapp v Ohio (1961)
Prosecution cannot present evidence that was secured by an unconstitutional search and seizure
What is a party platform?
A formal set of goals and policy positions that a political party promotes to the public.
Which amendment gave women the right to vote?
19
Give an example of a shared (concurrent) power between state and federal governments.
The power to tax, build roads, and enforce laws.
He brought young people into politics to change the political environment
How did Gideon v. Wainwright (1963) expand the rights of defendants?
It guaranteed the right to legal counsel for all defendants in criminal cases, even if they cannot afford an attorney.
How did the Democratic and Republican parties shift ideologically during the 20th century?
Democrats became associated with social programs and liberal reform; Republicans aligned more with conservatism and limited government.
The 14th Amendment guarantees what key protections under the law?
Equal protection and due process for all citizens.
What clause in the Constitution is often used to expand federal power?
The Necessary and Proper Clause (Elastic Clause).
What major issue dominated U.S. foreign policy discussions in 2022? Hint: (you did an assignment on it)
Russia Ukraine War and United States involvement
In U.S. v. Lopez (1995), why did the Court strike down the Gun-Free School Zones Act?
The Court ruled Congress had exceeded its Commerce Clause powers — education and gun laws are reserved to the states.
What is the main role of third parties in the U.S. political system?
To influence major party platforms, highlight specific issues, and sometimes shift election outcomes.
How did the 22nd Amendment change the presidency?
It limited the president to two elected terms in office.
How did the outcome of McCulloch v. Maryland strengthen the federal government?
It upheld the supremacy of federal law and recognized implied powers of Congress.
How are states responding differently to federal climate or energy initiatives?
Some states are adopting stricter emission standards while others resist federal regulations to protect local industries.
Which Supreme Court case ruled that even the President is not above the law, reinforcing checks and balances?
United States v. Nixon (1974)
How can party realignment influence national elections and government policy?
It can change voting coalitions and reshape party priorities, leading to new dominant eras in U.S. politics.
Which amendment lowered the voting age to 18, and why was it passed at that time?
The 26th Amendment — passed during the Vietnam War, when 18-year-olds were being drafted but couldn’t vote.
Describe one modern example of a conflict between state and federal authority.
Disputes over immigration enforcement, marijuana legalization, or abortion regulation.
How has recent legislation or executive action tested the limits of checks and balances?
Presidential use of executive orders, congressional investigations, and court challenges over federal authority.