Which of the following cases reinforced the federal government's authority to run a federal institution without interference by a state?

Study for the FGCU Civic Literacy Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations, to prepare confidently. Get ready for your exam!

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 established important principles regarding federalism and the powers of the national government.

In McCulloch v. Maryland, the Supreme Court ruled that the state of Maryland could not tax the Second Bank of the United States, which was a federally chartered institution. This decision underscored the supremacy of federal law over state law, asserting that the federal government has implied powers beyond those explicitly listed in the Constitution. The Court emphasized that states do not have the power to interfere with or tax legitimate federal activities because this would undermine federal authority and the effectiveness of federal operations.

The context of the ruling is significant, as it laid the foundation for a broader interpretation of federal power, enabling the national government to function effectively and without interference from state legislation. This case has often been cited to demonstrate the balance of power between state and federal authorities, reinforcing the concept that federal laws and institutions hold precedence over state laws in matters that fall under federal jurisdiction.

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