Essay Questions

What is the significance of Brown v. Board of Education?

Brown v. Board of Education was a landmark case in 1954, that challenged racial segregation in American schools. Headed by the talented Thurgood Marshall, the case ruled unanimously that racial segregation in schools went against the constitution. This was a significant achievement for the Civil Rights movement, as it provided a legal opposition to segregation in schools, and was especially significant because it challenged the previously accepted notion that schools should be "separate but equal." This case rules that separate schools for white and black students were inherently unequal, and paved the way for later cases concerned with racial equality in education.

Who was Alexander Hamilton?

Alexander Hamilton was the Secretary of the Treasury in 1800s America, and he was responsible for solving some financial problems. He proposed that the federal government should Charter a national bank, with branches throughout the US. This idea was met with some questioning, as members of congress were unsure whether a government should charter a bank.

What is the "Bill of Rights?"

In the text, Barnett and Blackman explain that the Constitution was submitted in 1787, and in 1789 Congress introduced ten ratified amendments. These amendments are now known as the "Bill of Rights," and include the amendment that "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion."

What are Enumerated Powers?

Enumerated powers govern how far the powers of Congress reach. Essentially, they are the responsibilities that Congress must keep to by law, and are the powers that Congress has. Cases concerned with enumerated powers include the Fugitive Slave Act and Prigg v. Pennsylvania and United States v. Dewitt.