McCulloch v. Maryland · US History

Why did the Court reject a strict reading of Congress's powers in McCulloch v. Maryland?

  1. Because states had no constitutional powers at all
  2. Because Congress could amend the Constitution by ordinary statute
  3. Because the Constitution had to endure and adapt to national needs
  4. Because the president had ordered the Court to do so
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Correct answer: Because the Constitution had to endure and adapt to national needs

Marshall reasoned that the Constitution was designed to endure for ages and meet changing circumstances. A narrow reading would prevent the federal government from effectively carrying out its responsibilities.

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