Examining Federalism: McCulloch v. Maryland and United States v. Lopez

In the United States, the balance of power between the federal and state governments has been a subject of debate for centuries. Two landmark Supreme Court cases, McCulloch v. Maryland (1819) and United States v. Lopez (1995), illustrate the evolving nature of federalism and the interpretation of states' rights versus federal authority.

Using these cases as your foundation, construct an argument that evaluates the shifting balance of power between state and federal governments over time. Make sure to analyze how each case reflects broader trends in constitutional interpretation and the implications of these rulings for state sovereignty and federal power. Support your argument with specific examples and evidence from both cases and additional relevant Supreme Court decisions, laws, or amendments.