Comp 4 Study Guide
Marbury v. Madison (1803)
• What were the key facts and issues in the case?
Marbury was appointed as a justice of the peace, but his commission was
not delivered; he petitioned the Supreme Court for a writ of mandamus to
compel delivery.
• How did the Supreme Court rule, and what was the reasoning behind
the decision?
The Court ruled that it could not issue the writ because the Judiciary Act of
1789 conflicted with the Constitution, establishing judicial review.
McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)
• Summarize the dispute between the state of Maryland and the Second
Bank of the United States.
Maryland attempted to tax the Second Bank of the United States, arguing
that the state had the power to tax any business within its borders.
• What constitutional clauses were at the center of this case?
The Necessary and Proper Clause and the Supremacy Clause were central,
affirming federal authority over states.
Dred Scott v. Sandford (1857)
• Describe the circumstances of Dred Scott's case and his claim for
freedom.
Dred Scott, a slave, argued for his freedom after living in free territories
with his master.
• What were the political and social consequences of the Dred Scott
decision?
The decision denied citizenship and rights to African Americans, increasing
tensions leading to the Civil War.
