📚 Topic Summary
The Commerce Clause, found in Article 1, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution, gives Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations, among the states, and with Indian tribes. It's been interpreted broadly, allowing the federal government to enact laws on a wide range of economic activities. Understanding the Commerce Clause is essential for grasping the balance of power between the federal and state governments.
This clause has been the basis for many landmark Supreme Court cases, shaping the relationship between federal and state power. It continues to be a relevant and debated topic in modern American law and civics.
🧠 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the following terms with their definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Interstate Commerce |
A. Powers specifically granted to the federal government by the Constitution. |
| 2. Intrastate Commerce |
B. Trade or business moving between states. |
| 3. Enumerated Powers |
C. Trade or business occurring within a single state. |
| 4. Regulation |
D. The Commerce Clause gives Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations, among the states, and with Indian tribes. |
| 5. Commerce Clause |
E. A rule or directive made and maintained by an authority. |
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
The __________ Clause gives Congress the power to regulate commerce. This power extends to __________ commerce, meaning trade between states. Activities that substantially affect __________ commerce can also be regulated by Congress, even if they occur within a single state. The Supreme Court case of __________ is a notable example of how the Commerce Clause has been interpreted.
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Imagine Congress passes a law regulating the sale of goods made entirely within one state. How could Congress justify this law under the Commerce Clause?