Florida Civic Literacy Practice Exam

Which case reinforced the federal government's authority to operate a federal institution without state interference?

1. Marbury v. Madison

2. Dred Scott v. Sandford

3. McCulloch v. Maryland

4. Plessy v. Ferguson

The correct answer is: McCulloch v. Maryland

The case that reinforced the federal government's authority to operate a federal institution without state interference is McCulloch v. Maryland. This landmark Supreme Court decision, decided in 1819, addressed the balance of power between the federal government and the states. In this case, the state of Maryland attempted to impose a tax on the Second Bank of the United States, which the federal government had established. The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice John Marshall, ruled that the federal government had the implied powers to create the bank and that the state of Maryland could not tax it because doing so would interfere with federal operations. This ruling affirmed the supremacy of federal laws and institutions over conflicting state laws, establishing a precedent that federal entities could function independently of state control. This decision was crucial in defining the relationship between state and federal authority, emphasizing that the federal government has the power to act within its realm, free from state interference. It also bolstered the doctrine of implied powers, allowing the federal government more leeway in its operations and responsibilities.