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Landmark Supreme Court Cases in U.S. Legal History Quiz

#1

Which landmark Supreme Court case established the principle of judicial review?

Marbury v. Madison
Explanation

Established the principle of judicial review, allowing the Supreme Court to declare laws unconstitutional.

#2

In which case did the Supreme Court rule that segregation in public schools was unconstitutional?

Brown v. Board of Education
Explanation

Ruled racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional, overturning 'separate but equal' doctrine.

#3

Which Supreme Court case legalized same-sex marriage across the United States?

Obergefell v. Hodges
Explanation

Legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, recognizing it as a fundamental right.

#4

In which case did the Supreme Court rule that states could not criminalize or regulate abortion during the first trimester of pregnancy?

Roe v. Wade
Explanation

Ruled state laws criminalizing or regulating abortion during the first trimester unconstitutional.

#5

Which Supreme Court case ruled that corporations and unions can spend unlimited amounts of money on political campaigns?

Citizens United v. FEC
Explanation

Ruled that corporate and union spending on political campaigns is protected under the First Amendment.

#6

Which case upheld the individual mandate provision of the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare)?

NFIB v. Sebelius
Explanation

Upheld individual mandate provision of the Affordable Care Act, deeming it a valid exercise of Congress's taxing power.

#7

Which case established the 'separate but equal' doctrine, upholding racial segregation?

Plessy v. Ferguson
Explanation

Established 'separate but equal' doctrine, justifying racial segregation.

#8

In which Supreme Court case was the right to an attorney for defendants in criminal cases guaranteed?

Gideon v. Wainwright
Explanation

Guaranteed right to an attorney for defendants in criminal cases, regardless of ability to pay.

#9

Which Supreme Court case established the 'one person, one vote' principle?

Reynolds v. Sims
Explanation

Established 'one person, one vote' principle, ensuring equal representation in legislative districts.

#10

Which case upheld the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II?

Korematsu v. United States
Explanation

Upheld internment of Japanese Americans during WWII, based on national security concerns.

#11

In which case did the Supreme Court establish the 'clear and present danger' test for free speech?

Schenck v. United States
Explanation

Established 'clear and present danger' test, limiting free speech if it poses a threat to national security.

#12

Which case affirmed the right to burn the American flag as a form of symbolic speech?

Texas v. Johnson
Explanation

Affirmed right to burn the American flag as protected symbolic speech under the First Amendment.

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