Ch. 2 - Study Questions on Federalism

Questions and Answers

Which of the following statements about federalism is correct? (Select all that apply)

Ensuring federalism was one of the easier tasks undertaken by the Framers of the Constitution.

Federalism was a subject of intense debate during the drafting of the Constitution. (correct)

Federalism primarily entails the growth of the federal government.

The Framers generally followed the model of federalism outlined in the Articles of Confederation.

Madison's concept of 'double security' was PRIMARILY intended to check which of the following?

The growth of state power

The rising Confederacy

The executive branch

The abuse of political power (correct)

Federalism is BEST described as which of the following?

Division of power between the three branches of government

Division of power between civilian and military leadership

A policy designed to enhance the power of the federal government

Division of power between the federal and state governments (correct)

Under the Articles of Confederation, states generally felt which of the following with regard to the federal government?

States enjoyed their sovereignty from the federal government. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following characterizes the evolution of the balance of power between state, local, and national governments?

The federal government has progressively assumed greater responsibility for domestic and economic issues. Signup and view all the answers

Which governmental institution is PRIMARILY credited with the most recent shift in the balance of power between the state and federal governments?

The Supreme Court Signup and view all the answers

Why did the federal government first decide to charter national banks?

State-owned banks were charging the federal government too much interest on loans to pay debts from the War of 1812. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Maryland decide to tax the national bank?

The United States started borrowing almost exclusively from the national bank instead of state banks. Signup and view all the answers

Given that Chief Justice John Marshall was a Federalist, how would one expect him to rule in this case?

In favor of McCulloch Signup and view all the answers

The first question before the Court was whether Congress could even charter a bank at all. Why, in particular, was this an issue?

Chartering a bank was not among Congress's enumerated powers. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Federalism and Constitutional Debates

Federalism was a contentious topic during the drafting of the Constitution, indicating significant debate among the Framers.
The concept emphasizes the division of power primarily between federal and state governments.
The Articles of Confederation contributed to states feeling a strong sense of sovereignty over federal authority.

Madison’s "Double Security"

The purpose of Madison's "double security" was to prevent the abuse of political power, ensuring checks and balances within the government.

Power Dynamics Between Governments

The federal government has incrementally taken on greater responsibilities, especially in domestic and economic affairs, reshaping the power balance with state and local governments.
The Supreme Court plays a crucial role in influencing and shifting the balance of power between state and federal governments.

National Banks and State Interaction

The federal government chartered national banks due to excessive interest charged by state banks during the War of 1812, aiming for more economic stability.
Maryland’s decision to tax the national bank was fueled by its reliance on national banks over state banks for borrowing funds, highlighting conflicts over authority.

Chief Justice John Marshall’s Rulings

Chief Justice John Marshall, a Federalist, is expected to rule favorably for the national bank in conflicts with state interests, adhering to federal supremacy.

Congress's Powers

The ability of Congress to charter a bank raised questions as it was not expressly listed under Congress's enumerated powers, leading to legal debates about implied powers.
In considering federal regulation of Internet copyright laws, Congress might invoke powers related to establishing uniformity in laws, showcasing the functional use of enumerated powers.

Description

This quiz consists of study questions related to federalism as discussed in Chapter 2. It covers key concepts and the historical context of federalism in the U.S. Constitution. Test your understanding and retention of the material through these flashcards.