Gibbons v. Ogden (1824)
General Overview of the case-Ogden had a monopoly to operate steamboats in a certain area in New York and New Jersey. Gibbons operated steamboats there as well, so Ogden sought injunctive relief against Gibbons.
General Overview of the case-Ogden had a monopoly to operate steamboats in a certain area in New York and New Jersey. Gibbons operated steamboats there as well, so Ogden sought injunctive relief against Gibbons.
Main Arguments for both sides-
For Gibbons: The Court was urged to take a broad view of the word commerce, which would subject passengers on interstate transports as well as other tangible items of commerce to federal regulation. Presenters argued that the federal coasting license superseded any New York regulation, because the Commerce Clause gives the Federal Government exclusive control over interstate commerce. List of Justices and how they voted:
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Main arguments for both sides-
For Ogden: The Court was urged to take a narrow view of the word commerce. As a sovereign State, New York was fully empowered to regulate business within its boundaries. New York had granted Ogden a legal exclusive franchise, and anyone who wanted to operate a steam-powered vessel in New York harbor, with landing rights in New York City, would have to pay him for the right. New York's effort did not interfere with the National Government's effort to regulate commerce. The Federal and State governments had concurrent power over commerce. |
Main Majority Opinion-
The appellant contends that this decree is erroneous because the laws which purport to give the exclusive privilege it sustains are repugnant to the Constitution and laws of the United States.
Main dissenting opinion-
There was no dissenting opinion because of the 6-0 vote
The appellant contends that this decree is erroneous because the laws which purport to give the exclusive privilege it sustains are repugnant to the Constitution and laws of the United States.
Main dissenting opinion-
There was no dissenting opinion because of the 6-0 vote