THROUGH THE U.S. CONSTITUTION, sovereignty is divided between the federal (national) government and the state governments. The federal and state governments have defined sovereigntyLinks to an external site. over the body politic within their geographic territory that does not require the approval of the other. The national government cannot abolish a state, and the states cannot abolish the national government. That doesn't mean they don't disagree on issues from time-to-time.

In this short essay, prepare a study of two U.S. Supreme Court cases relating to 'federalism'. Identify the main points with each of the following cases and how federalism was challenged in the court:

• Plessy v. Ferguson (1896)
• Brown v. Board of Education (1954)

Summarize the Court's majority ruling along with the vote. In the conclusion, explain who prevailed in the federalism challenge -- the state or federal government?