This cheat sheet provides a concise overview of key Supreme Court cases frequently covered in AP Government courses. It focuses on the major precedent set by each case, rather than exhaustive details. Remember to consult your textbook and class notes for a complete understanding.
Note: This is not an exhaustive list, and the significance of each case can vary depending on the curriculum.
Key Cases by Topic:
Federalism & States' Rights:
-
McCulloch v. Maryland (1819): Established the principle of implied powers, significantly expanding the federal government's authority beyond those explicitly listed in the Constitution. The "Necessary and Proper" Clause (Article I, Section 8) was interpreted broadly. Key takeaway: Federal law trumps state law when there's a conflict.
-
Gibbons v. Ogden (1824): Defined the scope of Congress's power under the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), granting it broad authority to regulate interstate commerce. This case significantly limited states' ability to impede national economic activity. Key takeaway: Federal regulation of interstate commerce prevails over state regulation.
-
United States v. Lopez (1995): Limited the scope of the Commerce Clause, ruling that Congress exceeded its authority by enacting the Gun-Free School Zones Act. This case marked a shift towards greater emphasis on state sovereignty in certain areas. Key takeaway: There are limits to Congress's power under the Commerce Clause.
-
Printz v. United States (1997): Further restricted the federal government's ability to commandeer state and local officials to implement federal programs. Key takeaway: Federal government cannot force state officials to carry out federal laws.
Civil Liberties & Rights:
-
Marbury v. Madison (1803): Established the principle of judicial review, granting the Supreme Court the power to declare laws unconstitutional. This is arguably the most significant Supreme Court case in American history. Key takeaway: The Supreme Court has the final say on the constitutionality of laws.
-
Plessy v. Ferguson (1896): Established the "separate but equal" doctrine, which allowed for racial segregation. This decision was later overturned by Brown v. Board of Education. Key takeaway: (Overturned) Separate facilities for different races were deemed constitutional as long as they were considered "equal."
-
Brown v. Board of Education (1954): Overturned Plessy v. Ferguson, declaring state laws establishing separate public schools for black and white students unconstitutional. Key takeaway: "Separate but equal" is inherently unequal and violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.
-
Gideon v. Wainwright (1963): Ruled that indigent (poor) defendants have a right to legal counsel in felony cases, expanding the Sixth Amendment's guarantee of the right to an attorney. Key takeaway: The state must provide legal counsel to those unable to afford it.
-
Miranda v. Arizona (1966): Established the requirement that suspects be informed of their constitutional rights before custodial interrogation. Key takeaway: Suspects must be informed of their rights (Miranda rights) before questioning.
-
Tinker v. Des Moines (1969): Affirmed students' right to symbolic speech in schools as long as it does not disrupt the educational environment. Key takeaway: Student speech is protected unless it substantially disrupts the learning process.
-
Roe v. Wade (1973): Established a woman's constitutional right to abortion based on the right to privacy under the Fourteenth Amendment. This remains a highly contested and debated decision. Key takeaway: The right to privacy extends to a woman's decision regarding abortion.
-
Mapp v. Ohio (1961): Established the exclusionary rule, which prohibits the use of illegally obtained evidence in a criminal trial. This protects individuals' Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures. Key takeaway: Illegally obtained evidence is inadmissible in court.
Other Significant Cases:
- Engel v. Vitale (1962): Ruled that mandatory prayer in public schools is unconstitutional, violating the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. Key takeaway: Public schools cannot sponsor or lead prayer.
This cheat sheet offers a brief overview. For in-depth understanding, consult your textbook, class materials, and reputable legal resources. Remember to focus on the core principles and lasting impact of these landmark decisions.
