Florida Civic Literacy Practice Exam

What clause was the basis for the ruling in McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)?

1. The Commerce Clause

2. The Supremacy Clause

3. The Necessary and Proper Clause

4. The Equal Protection Clause

The correct answer is: The Necessary and Proper Clause

The ruling in McCulloch v. Maryland (1819) was fundamentally based on the Necessary and Proper Clause. This clause allows Congress to enact laws that are deemed necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers. In the case, the Supreme Court held that Congress had the authority to establish a national bank, even though the Constitution did not explicitly grant this power. The Court reasoned that since creating a national bank was a means to an end—specifically, to effectively manage the nation’s finances and execute the powers granted to Congress—it fell under the realm of what could be considered "necessary and proper." This interpretation reinforced the principle of implied powers, demonstrating that the federal government can take actions not explicitly outlined in the Constitution if those actions are related to its constitutional responsibilities. This decision also highlighted the balance of power between the federal and state governments, as the ruling established that states cannot impede valid constitutional exercises of power by the federal government. Thus, it underscored the strength and flexibility of federal authority in relation to state laws and actions, effectively setting a precedent for future cases involving implied powers and federal authority.