Lesson 15 of 84 · The Constitution
⭐ 30 XP🏛️ Civic SquareThe Commerce Clause
The Commerce Clause, located in Article I, Section 8, empowers Congress to regulate commerce among the states and with foreign nations.
🎯 Your mission
Spot the fair part. Spot the unfair part.
⚡ The twist
A 'fair rule' for one group can be unfair for another.
Mind = Blown
🤯 Some laws on the books are over 800 years old and still apply.
Then & Now
🏛️ Knowing this makes you a better voter when you grow up.
The Commerce Clause, located in Article I, Section 8, empowers Congress to regulate commerce among the states and with foreign nations. This clause has been instrumental in facilitating economic growth and establishing a national market by allowing Congress to create regulations that govern trade. Over the years, the interpretation of the Commerce Clause has evolved, influencing landmark Supreme Court cases such as Gibbons v. Ogden, which confirmed federal authority over interstate commerce. This power has enabled the federal government to address issues such as monopolies, labor regulation, and environmental protections.
Key Facts
The Commerce Clause is found in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution.
It allows Congress to regulate interstate and foreign commerce.
Gibbons v. Ogden is a significant case regarding the Commerce Clause.
Check Your Understanding
Question 1
1 of 2What does the Commerce Clause allow Congress to regulate?
Why this still matters
Your school has rules. Where do they come from? Who decides them?
Stretch Challenge
Try this in real life this week.
Watch a town meeting or council clip on YouTube for 5 minutes.
For the dinner table
“What's one rule at our house you'd change if you could vote on it?”
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