Skip to content

The federal government is acknowledged by all to be one of…

“The federal government is acknowledged by all to be one of enumerated powers. The principle, that it can exercise only the powers granted to it . . . is now universally admitted.” quote by John Marshall
Download Open image
“The federal government is acknowledged by all to be one of enumerated powers. The principle, that it can exercise only the powers granted to it . . . is now universally admitted.”

John Marshall

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The government can only act within powers explicitly granted to it.

In simple terms: Govt powers are limited.

Key Takeaway

Respect constitutional limits.

Themes

law government constitution

Mood

thoughtful cautious

Type

legal political

When to use this quote

  • legislative drafting
  • court rulings
  • policy making

Key Concepts

federalism separation of powers

Questions to Reflect On

  • What powers should be delegated?
  • How do we guard against overreach?
A Different Perspective

Interpretations can expand or contract those powers over time.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by John Marshall

Explore all 57 John Marshall quotes

More Constitution quotes

Browse all 4,507 Constitution quotes