Absolutely Quote by Roger B. Taney
“It will be admitted on all hands, that with the exception of the powers surrendered by the Constitution of the United States, the people of the several States are absolutely and unconditionally sovereign within their respective territories.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Dred Scott Decision, 1857
The quote asserts that state peoples hold ultimate authority within their borders, except for powers given to the federal government by the Constitution.
In simple terms: States are sovereign except for constitutional powers.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits of state power.
Themes
sovereignty
federalism
constitutional law
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
legal
historical
When to use this quote
- legal debates
- state policy
- education
- civic discussions
Key Concepts
political theory
jurisprudence
Questions to Reflect On
- How should power be balanced between state and federal?
- What are the risks of extreme state sovereignty?
A Different Perspective
Federal authority can override state decisions in many areas.
