8 quotes
We must never forget that it is a constitution we are expounding.
McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)
The subject is the execution of those great powers on which the welfare of a Nation essentially depends.
McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)
An unlimited power to tax involves, necessarily, a power to destroy; because there is a limit beyond which no institution and no property can bear taxation.
McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)
T]he Government of the Union, though limited in its powers, is supreme within its sphere of action.
McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)
This provision is made in a constitution intended to endure for ages to come, and, consequently, to be adapted to the various crises of human affairs.
McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)
Let the end be legitimate, let it be within the scope of the constitution, and all means which are appropriate, which are plainly adapted to that end, which are not prohibited, but consist with the letter and spirit of the constitution, are constitutional.
McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)
In the Legislature of the Union alone are all represented. The Legislature of the Union alone, therefore, can be trusted by the people with the power of controlling measures which concern all, in the confidence that it will not be abused.
McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)
The government of the Union, then, … is, emphatically, and truly, a government of the people. In form and in substance it emanates from them. Its powers are granted by them, and are to be exercised directly on them, and for their benefit.
McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)