Purchase Solution

U.S. Constituion: Federal and State Powers

Not what you're looking for?

Ask Custom Question

Identify and discuss at least one way the U.S. Constitution provide for a strong federal government while still upholding individual states rights. Please provide an example to support your discussion.
Why is the United States Constitution called â??a living documentâ?? Why is it important that the Constitution be â??a living documentâ??

Purchase this Solution
Solution Summary

This solution provides information on the powers granted to the federal and state governments, including what powers are granted to the federal government and what powers are reserved for the state governments. A brief discussion of the Bill of Rights that protect basic freedoms of citizens is also incorporated into this solution. An explanation of the Constitution as a "living" document through the amendment process is detailed.

Solution Preview

The U.S. Constitution is a unique document that clearly establishes the powers of the federal government. Those powers not specifically given to the federal government are reserved for the states. Originally, states retained a significant amount of power. As the nation matured, the need to address national issues such as civil rights and labor standards, led the Supreme Court to make decision in favor of a strong federal government. The U.S. Constitution has allowed our government to change and grow as needed. The amendment process to the Constitution, though not easy, allows us to change our governing document. Thus, the U.S. Constitution can be viewed as a "living" document.

There are several granted or express powers that the U.S. Constitution bestows on the federal government that provide for its strength and power. ...

Purchase this Solution
Free BrainMass Quizzes
US World History Test I

Discusses the events that happen during the 15th through the 19th Century.

The Slavery Question in the American Territories

This quiz will test your knowledge about various laws and policies on slavery in the U.S. during the 19th century.

America After WWII

This quiz will access your knowledge of America after WWII and the new age that the country was entering into.

Native American Removal

This quiz covers the history surrounding the Indian Removal Act of 1830.

German Wars of Unification

A short quiz to determine the student's knowledge of events and figures associated with the mid 19th Century German Wars of Unification

View More Free Quizzes
Related BrainMass Solutions

  • Power of the Federal Government (19th century)

    These include the powers: to levy and collect taxes in order to pay debts, provide for common defense and general welfare of the U.S.; to borrow money on the credit of the U.S.; to regulate commerce with other nations and between the states; to establish

  • Enumerated Powers and the Dred Scott Case

    Enumerated Powers There are several granted or express powers that the U.S. Constitution bestows on the federal government that provide for its strength and power.

  • State and U.S. Constitutions

    550749 State and U.S. Constitutions Please discuss the differences between the state and the U.S. Constitutions. Differences between State Constitutions and the U.S.

  • Basis for Tension between State & Federal in Public Health

    448784 historical tension between the powers of the federal government and states in public health matters What is the basis for the historic tension between the powers of the federal government and powers of states in public health matters?

  • United States Constitution multiple choice questions

    The doctrine of separation of powers calls for which of the following? a. Separation of church and state b. Separation of civilian and military authority c.

  • Differences between dual and cooperative federalism.

    Federalism, the theory of government used by the United States, among others, is defined as two or more governing bodies exercising authority over the same people and territory, such as the U.S. Federal government and individual State governments.

  • Principles of Constitution

    state constitutions that conflict with the powers of the Federal government.

  • state court decision

    c) What happens when both state law and national law (including Constitutional provisions) apply and are part of a state courtâ??s determination? Is it reviewable by the U.S. Supreme Court? d) What criteria does the U.S.

  • Role of Government: Maximizing Government Efficiency

    - Provide at least two examples for both exclusive federal powers and exclusive state powers. - Describe the role courts play in determining the nature of federal-state relations.

View More Related Solutions