Dartmouth College v. Woodward

Definition

This was a landmark decision from the Supreme Court in 1819 that ruled that states cannot interfere with private contracts. It reinforced contract law and protected corporations from state governments.

Related terms

Contract Clause: A clause of the United States Constitution that prohibits states from interfering with private contracts.

McCulloch v Maryland: A Supreme Court case establishing supremacy of national over state government when they conflict.

Gibbons v Ogden: A Supreme Court case deciding that the federal government has exclusive power over interstate commerce.