U.S. v. Amistad: A Case of Jurisdiction
In 1841, the United States Supreme Court issued its decision in the case United States v. Libellants of Schooner Amistad. With your classmates, closely examine the majority opinion in this case and respond to the questions below in writing. Use the spotlighted sections to guide you, then click the arrow and magnifying glass icons in the blue menu bar at the bottom of the document to look more closely.
Be prepared to share your responses during a class discussion.
- What court had original jurisdiction?
- Which court was next to hear the case? What was the result?
- What was the Supreme Court’s decision in United States v. Libellants of Schooner Amistad?
- According to the Constitution, why does the Supreme Court have the authority to hear this case? Provide the exact article and section.
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