Must-Know Supreme Court Cases for AP Government

When it comes to mastering U.S. Government, understanding key Supreme Court cases is essential. These landmark decisions not only shape the legal landscape but also provide critical insights into the interpretation of the Constitution. Whether you're preparing for the AP Government exam or simply looking to deepen your knowledge of American civics, this comprehensive guide will delve into the must-know Supreme Court cases that have defined and redefined American law and governance.

1. Marbury v. Madison (1803)
This case established the principle of judicial review, which allows the Supreme Court to invalidate laws that are in conflict with the Constitution. The decision was a pivotal moment in American history as it confirmed the judiciary's role in upholding the Constitution and cemented the Supreme Court's authority in the American legal system. Chief Justice John Marshall’s ruling in this case fundamentally changed the relationship between the three branches of government and ensured that the Constitution remains the supreme law of the land.

2. McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)
In this case, the Supreme Court addressed the balance of power between state and federal governments. The court upheld the federal government's authority to establish a national bank, and it ruled that states could not tax federal institutions. The ruling reinforced the Necessary and Proper Clause and emphasized the supremacy of federal laws over state laws, shaping the scope of federal powers and state-federal relations.

3. Brown v. Board of Education (1954)
A landmark decision that declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional. This case overruled the earlier Plessy v. Ferguson decision, which had established the doctrine of "separate but equal." The Supreme Court's ruling in Brown v. Board was a significant step in the Civil Rights Movement, marking a crucial victory in the fight against racial discrimination and setting the stage for further civil rights advances.

4. Roe v. Wade (1973)
This controversial case centered on a woman's right to privacy and the legality of abortion. The Supreme Court ruled that a woman has a constitutional right to choose to have an abortion under the Due Process Clause of the 14th Amendment. The decision has been a focal point of political and legal debate ever since, influencing the ongoing discourse on reproductive rights and personal privacy.

5. United States v. Lopez (1995)
This case addressed the extent of Congress's power under the Commerce Clause. The Supreme Court held that Congress had exceeded its authority by enacting the Gun-Free School Zones Act, which prohibited the possession of firearms in school zones. The ruling marked the first time in over 50 years that the Supreme Court limited Congress's power under the Commerce Clause, setting a precedent for future cases regarding the limits of federal power.

6. Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission (2010)
A landmark case that addressed the regulation of political spending by corporations and unions. The Supreme Court ruled that restrictions on independent political expenditures by corporations and unions violate the First Amendment's free speech protections. This decision has had profound implications for campaign finance and the role of money in politics, leading to increased political spending and significant changes in how elections are funded.

7. Miranda v. Arizona (1966)
This case established the Miranda rights, requiring law enforcement to inform suspects of their rights to an attorney and against self-incrimination during interrogation. The ruling aimed to protect Fifth Amendment rights and ensure that confessions are made voluntarily and with full awareness of the legal implications. The decision has become a cornerstone of criminal procedure and has had a lasting impact on law enforcement practices.

8. Obergefell v. Hodges (2015)
This case legalized same-sex marriage across the United States. The Supreme Court ruled that the Fourteenth Amendment requires states to recognize and perform marriages between same-sex couples. The decision was a landmark moment in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, affirming the principle of equal protection under the law and ending a patchwork of state laws that had varied widely on the issue of marriage equality.

9. Bush v. Gore (2000)
This case resolved the disputed 2000 presidential election between George W. Bush and Al Gore. The Supreme Court’s decision effectively awarded Florida's electoral votes to Bush, thus securing his victory. The ruling was controversial and highlighted issues of electoral procedures and the role of the judiciary in resolving election disputes.

10. Shelby County v. Holder (2013)
In this case, the Supreme Court invalidated a key provision of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The ruling struck down the requirement for certain jurisdictions to obtain federal approval before changing voting laws, arguing that the formula used to determine which areas were covered was outdated. The decision has had a significant impact on voting rights and election law, leading to debates over voter suppression and election integrity.

Understanding these cases is crucial for any AP Government student or anyone interested in American law and politics. They represent significant moments in the history of the Supreme Court and illustrate the evolving interpretation of the Constitution and the balance of powers within the U.S. government.