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From the Constitutional Convention to debates in Congress to arguments before the Supreme Court, examine the dynamic interplay of federal and state power in these 24 eye-opening lectures.
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Episodes
1. Federalism: America's Great Innovation
31m
Begin your study of federalism with a look at the 2000 presidential election dispute between George W. Bush and Al Gore. Examine the historical context and philosophical foundations of federalism. Then, reflect on how the balance of power between state and federal governments continues to shape our politics today.
2. How Federalism Shapes American Politics
29m
Step back to the founding of America to explore the rise of our two-party political system. Professor Hoffmann walks you through six phases of party politics, including Jacksonian Democracy, Reconstruction, the Progressive Era, and party realignment during the Civil Rights Era.
3. States Can't Nullify Federal Law
31m
The Supremacy Clause in the Constitution declares that federal law is "the supreme law of the land." Yet throughout our history, federal and state governments have clashed over interpretations of the law and states' rights. From the Alien and Sedition Acts to Brown v. Board of Education, survey this rocky relationship.
4. The Federal Government Can Tax and Spend
29m
Although federal law reigns supreme, the Constitution outlines a limited domain for federal authority. In this first of several lectures on federal power, you will learn about the power of taxing and spending-and the implication for state policies and national economic strategy. Review the unique status of health care in contemporary America.
5. Guns, the Military, and Foreign Affairs
29m
National defense is a key function of the government, but our Constitution creates a dual system to ensure a strong yet balanced federal government. Dive into this system and explore its implications for military operations and foreign policy. This lecture also takes you into the controversial world of gun rights and the Second Amendment.
6. Borders, Immigration, and Citizenship
31m
Shift your attention from guns to immigration, which has been a complex issue for the United States ever since the 18th century. Professor Hoffmann explores the historical and contemporary challenges of managing borders, immigration laws, and the process of becoming a citizen.
7. Commerce Clause: A Source of Federal Power
30m
The Commerce Clause in the Constitution underpins much of the 20th century's federal authority. In this first of two lectures, you will delve into the world of interstate commerce. You will see how the Lochner Era (roughly 1905-1937) curtailed federal regulations, and then how New Deal legislation expanded federal power.
8. Commerce Clause: A Limit on State Power
29m
Continue your study of the Commerce Clause by looking at the boundaries of state authority and the impact on interstate economic activities. Professor Hoffmann walks you through case law about regulations ranging from the environment to sales taxes on alcohol. He concludes with a look at how current state laws aim to regulate internet content.
9. How Federal Citizenship Emerged
29m
Federalism is a dynamic system, constantly evolving with the will of the electorate. Here, learn how the Civil War and the 14th Amendment reshaped the nature of federal citizenship with a guarantee of due process and equal protection. Then consider the push-pull of progress and regression over the decades.
10. Equal Protection's Failed Promise
30m
After the Civil War, the 14th Amendment promised equal protection under the law, but the nation didn't change on a dime. In this lecture, you will unpack pivotal moments such as the Tulsa Race Massacre and legal decisions including Brown v. Board of Education-all of which highlight the gap between constitutional promises and social realities.
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