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Questions and Answers
What was the historical context of the Cohens vs. Virginia case?
What was the historical context of the Cohens vs. Virginia case?
What actions did the Cohen brothers take that led to their arrest?
What actions did the Cohen brothers take that led to their arrest?
They began selling D.C. lottery tickets in Virginia.
The state court believed Virginia's law prohibiting out-of-state lottery tickets could not be enforced.
The state court believed Virginia's law prohibiting out-of-state lottery tickets could not be enforced.
False
Did Congress have the Constitutional right to review the ruling of the Virginia Supreme Court?
Did Congress have the Constitutional right to review the ruling of the Virginia Supreme Court?
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What was the Supreme Court's decision regarding the Cohens' case?
What was the Supreme Court's decision regarding the Cohens' case?
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What significance did the Cohens vs. Virginia case have on federal power?
What significance did the Cohens vs. Virginia case have on federal power?
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Study Notes
Historical Context
- A bill was passed by Congress allowing lottery ticket sales in the District of Columbia.
- Virginia established its own state lottery and prohibited the sale of out-of-state lottery tickets.
Facts
- The Cohen brothers sold D.C. lottery tickets in Virginia.
- They were charged and convicted by state authorities for violating Virginia's law.
- The Virginia state court upheld the law, claiming it could be enforced despite Congressional authorization for the lottery.
Question
- Inquiry regarding whether Congress possessed the Constitutional authority to review the Virginia Supreme Court's ruling.
Decision/Reasoning
- The Supreme Court delivered a unanimous decision affirming its authority to review state criminal proceedings.
- Chief Justice Marshall asserted the Court's role in addressing constitutional questions, regardless of the parties involved.
- It was stated that state laws and constitutions are invalid when they conflict with the federal Constitution and laws.
- The Court concluded that the lottery was a local matter, thus confirming the fine imposed on the Cohens.
Significance
- The case reinforced federal power by establishing the Supreme Court's right to review state supreme court decisions in matters concerning the Constitution and federal authority.
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Description
Explore the implications of a Supreme Court ruling regarding Congress's authority to review state laws. This quiz delves into the historical context of lottery sales and the interplay between state and federal laws. Test your understanding of the constitutional principles at play.
