How did 19th century interpretations of American federalism lead to the denial of fundamental rights to specific groups of Americans?

What will be an ideal response?


Students should discuss the strict post–Civil War interpretation of the Constitution under the tradition of dual federalism. Since power rested with the states and national government separately, the Supreme Court was unwilling to become involved in the question of civil rights, particularly for African Americans. While, by this time, the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments protected the rights of African Americans, they were either unenforced or selectively enforced. Perhaps the most important cases during this post–Civil War era were the Slaughterhouse and Plessey v. Ferguson cases. Students should discuss these cases and use them as examples of these narrow 19th-century interpretations. In particular, the Plessey case would have a legacy of “separate but equal” treatment that would last until the 1950s.

Political Science

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Why did the United States wish to deploy an anti-missile defense in Central Europe?

a. To protect against an Iranian attack. b. To maintain the system of “mutual assured destruction” with Russia. c. To respond to Russia aggression against Ukraine. d. To deter a Russian attack against Poland or the Czech Republic.

Political Science

In a __________ case, courts enforce contracts and award damages to victims of negligence

a. Grand Jury b. civil c. Supreme Court d. criminal

Political Science

A "political machine" features __________

a. the automatic tabulation of votes b. a hierarchical organization c. Progressive Era reforms d. a major source of concern in Federalist No. 10

Political Science

voter turnout

What will be an ideal response?

Political Science