Article IV - States Relations
States must honor each other's laws, court rulings, and official records — but the same article contained the [Fugitive Slave Clause](https://constitution.congress.gov/browse/article-4/section-2/clause-3/), which forced free states to return escaped enslaved people to their enslavers. The [Fugitive Slave Act of 1850](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fugitive_Slave_Act_of_1850) made this a federal crime to circumvent, turning Northern citizens into instruments of slavery's enforcement.
Original Text
Full Faith and Credit shall be given in each State to the public Acts, Records, and judicial Proceedings of every other State.
Section 1. Full Faith and Credit shall be given in each State to the public Acts, Records, and judicial Proceedings of every other State. And the Congress may by general Laws prescribe the Manner in which such Acts, Records and Proceedings shall be proved, and the Effect thereof.
Section 2. The Citizens of each State shall be entitled to all Privileges and Immunities of Citizens in the several States. A Person charged in any State with Treason, Felony, or other Crime, who shall flee from Justice, and be found in another State, shall on Demand of the executive Authority of the State from which he fled, be delivered up, to be removed to the State having Jurisdiction of the Crime. No Person held to Service or Labour in one State, under the Laws thereof, escaping into another, shall, in Consequence of any Law or Regulation therein, be discharged from such Service or Labour, but shall be delivered up on Claim of the Party to whom such Service or Labour may be due.
Section 3. New States may be admitted by the Congress into this Union; but no new State shall be formed or erected within the Jurisdiction of any other State; nor any State be formed by the Junction of two or more States, or Parts of States, without the Consent of the Legislatures of the States concerned as well as of the Congress. The Congress shall have Power to dispose of and make all needful Rules and Regulations respecting the Territory or other Property belonging to the United States; and nothing in this Constitution shall be so construed as to Prejudice any Claims of the United States, or of any particular State.
Section 4. The United States shall guarantee to every State in this Union a Republican Form of Government, and shall protect each of them against Invasion; and on Application of the Legislature, or of the Executive (when the Legislature cannot be convened) against domestic Violence.
Article IV is the Constitution's framework for managing relationships among states. Its four sections address different problems of interstate federalism.
Section 1 (Full Faith and Credit): States must honor each other's laws, court judgments, and official records. Your marriage license, driver's license, and court orders are valid across state lines—though states retain some choice-of-law flexibility when another state's law conflicts sharply with their own public policy.
Section 2 (Privileges and Immunities): States can't treat citizens of other states as legal outsiders in core matters like economic opportunity and access to courts. Extradition requires returning fugitives who cross state lines. The original Fugitive Slave Clause forced free states to return escaped enslaved people; the [Thirteenth Amendment (1865)](https://constitution.congress.gov/browse/amendment-13/) nullified it.
Section 3 (New States and Territories): Only Congress can admit new states. Congress also holds broad authority over federal territories and property under the Property Clause—power with no fixed expiration or geographic limit.
Section 4 (Guarantee Clause): The federal government must guarantee every state a republican form of government. Courts have consistently treated this as a political question for Congress to enforce, not courts.
Check your understanding
Key Concepts0/12
Full Faith and Credit - Quick Quiz
States must recognize each other's laws, records, and court decisions
Question 1: Full Faith and Credit requires states to:
Answer options:
- Recognize other states laws and court decisions (Correct answer)
The clause mandates interstate recognition.
- Adopt identical laws
States can have different laws.
- Share all tax revenue
Fiscal matters are separate.
- Ignore other states entirely
Recognition is required.
Explanation: States must recognize other states legal acts.
Question 2: A divorce granted in Nevada is:
Answer options:
- Valid in all 50 states (Correct answer)
Full Faith and Credit applies.
- Only valid in Nevada
Divorces are recognized nationwide.
- Subject to review in each state
Recognition is automatic.
- Invalid until federally approved
No federal approval needed.
Explanation: Divorces are recognized in all states.
Question 3: The Full Faith and Credit Clause promotes:
Answer options:
- National unity by respecting state judgments (Correct answer)
States function as a unified nation.
- State independence from federal law
The clause is a federal requirement.
- Competition between states
The clause promotes cooperation.
- Federal control over states
The clause is about interstate relations.
Explanation: The clause promotes national unity.
Question 4: Full Faith and Credit applies to _____ judgments.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: court
Options: court, legal, state, judicial
Explanation: Full Faith and Credit applies to court judgments.
Question 5: Without Full Faith and Credit:
Answer options:
- Court judgments could be ignored when crossing state lines (Correct answer)
Recognition prevents legal chaos.
- States would be more unified
Lack of recognition causes division.
- Federal courts would be unnecessary
Federal courts serve different functions.
- Citizens would have more freedom
Legal uncertainty reduces freedom.
Explanation: Without the clause, judgments would be worthless across state lines.
Question 6: The clause ensures _____ recognition.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: interstate
Options: interstate, mutual, legal, full
Explanation: The clause ensures interstate recognition.
Question 7: A custody order from Florida must be:
Answer options:
- Honored by courts in all other states (Correct answer)
Full Faith and Credit applies to custody.
- Re-litigated in each new state
Orders are generally binding.
- Ignored if parents disagree
Court orders are enforceable.
- Valid only in Southern states
Orders are valid nationwide.
Explanation: Custody orders must be honored in other states.
Question 8: States must give _____ credit to other states records.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: full
Options: full, complete, total, absolute
Explanation: States must give full credit to other states records.
Question 9: Congress can legislate regarding Full Faith and Credit to:
Answer options:
- Prescribe how records are authenticated (Correct answer)
Congress sets procedural rules.
- Override all state laws
Congressional power is limited.
- Create new states
That is a different power.
- Abolish state courts
Congress cannot abolish state courts.
Explanation: Congress can prescribe the manner of proving records.
Question 10: Full Faith and Credit creates legal _____.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: uniformity
Options: uniformity, consistency, harmony, unity
Explanation: Full Faith and Credit creates legal uniformity.
Privileges and Immunities - Quick Quiz
Citizens have fundamental rights in all states, not just their home state
Question 1: Privileges and Immunities means:
Answer options:
- Citizens have fundamental rights in every state (Correct answer)
Rights travel with citizens.
- States can deny rights to outsiders
The clause prevents discrimination.
- Only residents have constitutional rights
Rights extend to all citizens.
- Federal rights override all state rights
The clause is about equal treatment.
Explanation: Citizens have fundamental rights in all states.
Question 2: A citizen from Ohio traveling to California:
Answer options:
- Has fundamental rights protected in California (Correct answer)
Privileges and Immunities protect travelers.
- Loses all rights while visiting
Rights travel with citizens.
- Must apply for temporary rights
Rights are automatic.
- Can be treated as a foreign national
Citizens have rights in all states.
Explanation: Citizens have rights in states they visit.
Question 3: The Privileges and Immunities Clause prevents:
Answer options:
- States from discriminating against citizens of other states (Correct answer)
Equal treatment is required.
- Federal interference in state affairs
The clause is about interstate relations.
- Interstate commerce
Commerce is a separate clause.
- State taxation
States can tax with equal treatment.
Explanation: The clause prevents discrimination against out-of-staters.
Question 4: The clause protects _____ rights.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: fundamental
Options: fundamental, basic, essential, core
Explanation: The clause protects fundamental rights.
Question 5: States can treat non-residents differently for:
Answer options:
- Voting in state elections (Correct answer)
Voting requires residency.
- Access to state courts
Courts must be equally accessible.
- Police protection
Police protect all persons.
- Contract enforcement
Contracts must be equally enforced.
Explanation: Voting and some benefits can be limited to residents.
Question 6: Citizens have _____ in all states.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: privileges
Options: privileges, rights, protections, freedoms
Explanation: Citizens have privileges in all states.
Question 7: A higher tax on out-of-state fishermen would be:
Answer options:
- Likely unconstitutional under Privileges and Immunities (Correct answer)
Discrimination against non-residents is suspect.
- Always constitutional
Discrimination is suspect.
- A federal matter only
State discrimination is at issue.
- Required by the Constitution
Discrimination is prohibited.
Explanation: Such taxes may violate the clause.
Question 8: The clause ensures _____ treatment.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: equal
Options: equal, fair, same, identical
Explanation: The clause ensures equal treatment.
Question 9: Corfield v. Coryell identified privileges as:
Answer options:
- Fundamental rights belonging to citizens in a free government (Correct answer)
The case defined protected privileges.
- All rights whatsoever
Only fundamental rights are protected.
- No specific rights
The case identified many rights.
- Only property rights
Many types of rights are protected.
Explanation: The case identified fundamental rights of citizenship.
Question 10: The clause promotes national _____.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: unity
Options: unity, cohesion, citizenship, identity
Explanation: The clause promotes national unity.
Extradition - Quick Quiz
States must return fugitives to states where they are charged with crimes
Question 1: Extradition requires states to:
Answer options:
- Return fugitives to requesting states (Correct answer)
The Constitution requires interstate extradition.
- Grant asylum to fugitives
States cannot grant asylum from other states.
- Retry criminals from other states
Extradition returns, not retries, fugitives.
- Ignore other states requests
Extradition is mandatory, not optional.
Explanation: States must return fugitives to the state where they are charged.
Question 2: The Extradition Clause applies to:
Answer options:
- Persons charged with crimes (Correct answer)
Extradition applies to criminal charges.
- Only civil disputes
Extradition is for criminal, not civil, matters.
- Only federal crimes
Extradition applies to state crimes too.
- Only violent offenses
Extradition applies to all criminal charges.
Explanation: The clause applies to persons charged with crimes.
Question 3: Extradition ensures:
Answer options:
- Criminals cannot escape by crossing state lines (Correct answer)
Extradition prevents interstate flight from justice.
- All states have the same laws
States retain different criminal laws.
- Federal courts handle all crimes
States retain criminal jurisdiction.
- Crimes are forgiven across borders
Extradition prosecutes, not forgives, crimes.
Explanation: Extradition ensures criminals cannot escape justice by crossing state lines.
Question 4: Extradition creates _____ cooperation.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: interstate
Options: interstate, federal, state, national
Explanation: Extradition creates interstate cooperation.
Question 5: The Extradition Clause was designed to:
Answer options:
- Prevent criminals from escaping justice (Correct answer)
Extradition closes escape routes between states.
- Increase federal power over states
Extradition is about interstate, not federal, cooperation.
- Create a national police force
Extradition works through state authorities.
- Unify state criminal codes
States retain their own criminal laws.
Explanation: The clause was designed to prevent criminals from escaping justice.
Question 6: Extradition protects _____ justice.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: criminal
Options: criminal, civil, state, federal
Explanation: Extradition protects criminal justice.
Question 7: A governor receives an extradition request. What must happen?
Answer options:
- The fugitive must be delivered to the requesting state (Correct answer)
Extradition is constitutionally mandatory.
- The governor can refuse at discretion
Governors cannot refuse valid extradition requests.
- A federal judge must approve first
Extradition is between states, not federal.
- The fugitive can appeal indefinitely
Extradition proceedings are limited.
Explanation: The governor must deliver the fugitive to the requesting state.
Question 8: Extradition applies to _____ fleeing justice.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: persons
Options: persons, criminals, fugitives, defendants
Explanation: Extradition applies to persons fleeing justice.
Question 9: The Extradition Clause reflects the principle that:
Answer options:
- No state can be a haven for criminals (Correct answer)
Extradition prevents criminal safe havens.
- States are fully independent nations
States cooperate within the federal system.
- Federal law overrides all state law
Extradition is about interstate cooperation.
- Criminals have no rights across state lines
Due process still applies in extradition.
Explanation: The clause reflects that no state can be a haven for criminals.
Question 10: Extradition strengthens _____ between states.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: cooperation
Options: cooperation, unity, relations, bonds
Explanation: Extradition strengthens cooperation between states.
Admission of New States - Quick Quiz
Congress controls the process for admitting new states
Question 1: New states are admitted by:
Answer options:
- Congress (Correct answer)
Article IV gives Congress power to admit new states.
- The President
The President does not admit states.
- The Supreme Court
Courts do not admit states.
- Existing states voting
Congress, not states, admits new states.
Explanation: Congress has the power to admit new states.
Question 2: New states enter the Union:
Answer options:
- On equal footing with existing states (Correct answer)
All states have equal status.
- With fewer rights than original states
New states have equal rights.
- As territories first for 10 years
States are admitted directly, not through probation.
- With conditional statehood
Statehood is full and immediate.
Explanation: New states enter on equal footing with existing states.
Question 3: A new state cannot be formed from an existing state without:
Answer options:
- Consent of the existing state (Correct answer)
States cannot be divided without consent.
- Presidential approval only
State consent is also required.
- Supreme Court ruling
Courts do not create states.
- Unanimous vote of all states
Only the affected state must consent.
Explanation: State consent is required to carve new states from existing ones.
Question 4: Congress admits new states through _____ power.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: legislative
Options: legislative, constitutional, executive, judicial
Explanation: Congress admits new states through legislative power.
Question 5: West Virginia was created from Virginia during:
Answer options:
- The Civil War (Correct answer)
West Virginia formed in 1863 during the war.
- The Revolutionary War
West Virginia formed in 1863, not 1776.
- World War I
West Virginia formed in 1863.
- The Great Depression
West Virginia formed in 1863.
Explanation: West Virginia separated during the Civil War.
Question 6: New states require _____ approval.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: Congressional
Options: Congressional, Presidential, State, Federal
Explanation: New states require Congressional approval.
Question 7: The admission process ensures:
Answer options:
- National unity and equal status for new states (Correct answer)
All states are equal members of the Union.
- Federal control over new territories permanently
Territories become equal states.
- Original states retain more power
All states have equal power.
- New states pay higher taxes
All states are treated equally.
Explanation: The process ensures national unity and equal status.
Question 8: States are admitted on _____ footing.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: equal
Options: equal, fair, same, level
Explanation: States are admitted on equal footing.
Question 9: Puerto Rico could become a state if:
Answer options:
- Congress passes an admission act (Correct answer)
Congress has sole power to admit new states.
- The President issues an executive order
Only Congress can admit states.
- Puerto Ricans vote yes in a referendum
A vote is not sufficient without Congress.
- The Supreme Court orders it
Courts cannot admit states.
Explanation: Puerto Rico would need Congressional approval to become a state.
Question 10: New state admission reflects _____ expansion.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: national
Options: national, territorial, federal, democratic
Explanation: New state admission reflects national expansion.
Guarantee Clause - Quick Quiz
Federal government ensures states have republican (representative) governments
Question 1: The Guarantee Clause ensures states have:
Answer options:
- Republican form of government (Correct answer)
The Constitution guarantees representative government.
- Direct democracy
Republican means representative, not direct democracy.
- Monarchical leadership
Republican government excludes monarchy.
- Military rule
Republican means civilian representative government.
Explanation: States must maintain republican government.
Question 2: Republican government means:
Answer options:
- Citizens elect representatives to govern (Correct answer)
Republican government uses elected representatives.
- The Republican Party controls the state
Republican refers to the system, not the party.
- Citizens vote on every law directly
That would be direct democracy.
- A king rules with limited power
Republican excludes monarchy.
Explanation: Republican government means representative democracy.
Question 3: The Guarantee Clause protects against:
Answer options:
- Authoritarian takeover of state governments (Correct answer)
The clause prevents tyranny at the state level.
- Federal interference in state affairs
The clause allows federal protection of democracy.
- State participation in federal elections
The clause supports democratic participation.
- Interstate commerce
Commerce is separate from the Guarantee Clause.
Explanation: The clause protects against tyranny and authoritarianism.
Question 4: The Guarantee Clause ensures _____ government.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: republican
Options: republican, democratic, representative, federal
Explanation: The clause ensures republican government.
Question 5: The federal government can intervene if a state:
Answer options:
- Abandons republican government (Correct answer)
The Guarantee Clause authorizes federal protection of democracy.
- Raises taxes too high
Tax policy is a state matter.
- Elects unpopular leaders
Unpopular elections are still republican.
- Passes laws Congress dislikes
Policy disagreements do not trigger the clause.
Explanation: Federal intervention is allowed if a state abandons republican government.
Question 6: Republican government requires _____ representation.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: elected
Options: elected, popular, citizen, democratic
Explanation: Republican government requires elected representation.
Question 7: The Guarantee Clause has been used to:
Answer options:
- Protect state governments from domestic violence (Correct answer)
Federal troops can protect state governments.
- Override all state laws
The clause protects, not overrides, states.
- Abolish state governments
The clause protects state governments.
- Create new federal agencies
Agency creation is separate from the clause.
Explanation: The clause has been used to protect state governments.
Question 8: States must maintain _____ forms of government.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: republican
Options: republican, democratic, representative, constitutional
Explanation: States must maintain republican forms of government.
Question 9: Courts have generally treated Guarantee Clause claims as:
Answer options:
- Political questions for Congress to decide (Correct answer)
Courts defer to Congress on republican form issues.
- The most important constitutional cases
Courts rarely decide these cases.
- Easy to resolve
These are complex political questions.
- State court jurisdiction only
Federal courts handle constitutional questions.
Explanation: Courts often consider these political questions.
Question 10: The Guarantee Clause prevents _____ in states.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: tyranny
Options: tyranny, monarchy, dictatorship, authoritarianism
Explanation: The clause prevents tyranny in states.
Territorial Governance - Quick Quiz
Congress has power over U.S. territories
Question 1: Territories are governed by:
Answer options:
- Congress (Correct answer)
Congress has plenary power over territories.
- The President alone
Congress, not the President, governs territories.
- The Supreme Court
Courts do not govern territories.
- The United Nations
Territories are under U.S., not UN, jurisdiction.
Explanation: Congress has power over territories.
Question 2: U.S. territories include:
Answer options:
- Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands (Correct answer)
These are current U.S. territories.
- Canada and Mexico
These are independent nations.
- All 50 states
States are not territories.
- European possessions
The U.S. has no European territories.
Explanation: Territories include Puerto Rico, Guam, and others.
Question 3: Territory residents compared to state residents:
Answer options:
- Cannot vote for President (Correct answer)
Territories lack presidential electors.
- Have more rights
Territory residents have fewer federal rights.
- Pay no federal taxes
Many territory residents pay federal taxes.
- Are not U.S. citizens
Most territory residents are citizens.
Explanation: Territory residents have limited federal voting rights.
Question 4: Congress has _____ power over territories.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: plenary
Options: plenary, full, complete, absolute
Explanation: Congress has plenary power over territories.
Question 5: The Territorial Clause allows Congress to:
Answer options:
- Make all needful rules and regulations (Correct answer)
Congress has broad territorial authority.
- Only collect taxes
Congressional power is much broader.
- Only provide military protection
Congressional power includes civilian governance.
- Only admit territories as states
Congress also governs territories.
Explanation: Congress can make all rules for territories.
Question 6: Territories are under _____ control.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: Congressional
Options: Congressional, federal, national, presidential
Explanation: Territories are under Congressional control.
Question 7: The Insular Cases established that:
Answer options:
- Constitution applies partially in territories (Correct answer)
Only fundamental rights apply automatically.
- Territories are foreign nations
Territories are U.S. possessions.
- All constitutional rights apply fully
Only fundamental rights apply automatically.
- Congress has no power over territories
Congress has plenary territorial power.
Explanation: The Constitution applies partially in territories.
Question 8: Territories lack full _____ representation.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: congressional
Options: congressional, federal, voting, political
Explanation: Territories lack full congressional representation.
Question 9: A territory becomes a state when:
Answer options:
- Congress passes an enabling act (Correct answer)
Congress admits territories as states.
- The President signs an order
Only Congress can admit states.
- The population reaches 1 million
Population alone does not create statehood.
- The territory declares itself a state
Only Congress can admit states.
Explanation: A territory becomes a state when Congress admits it.
Question 10: Territorial governance reflects federal _____.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: authority
Options: authority, power, control, jurisdiction
Explanation: Territorial governance reflects federal authority.
State Equality - Quick Quiz
New states enter on equal footing with existing states
Question 1: New states compared to original states have:
Answer options:
- Equal powers and status (Correct answer)
All states enter on equal footing.
- Fewer powers
New states are fully equal.
- More restrictions
New states have equal rights.
- Probationary status
Statehood is immediate and full.
Explanation: All states have equal powers.
Question 2: State equality means:
Answer options:
- Same constitutional rights regardless of when admitted (Correct answer)
Time of admission does not affect rights.
- Same population size
Equality is about rights, not population.
- Same geographic size
Equality is about rights, not size.
- Same economic output
Equality is about constitutional status.
Explanation: All states have the same constitutional status.
Question 3: State equality is reflected in:
Answer options:
- Equal Senate representation (Correct answer)
Each state gets two senators regardless of size.
- Equal House representation
House seats are based on population.
- Equal tax rates
Tax rates vary.
- Equal land area
States vary greatly in size.
Explanation: Equal Senate representation reflects state equality.
Question 4: All states have _____ status.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: equal
Options: equal, same, identical, fair
Explanation: All states have equal status.
Question 5: The equal footing doctrine prevents:
Answer options:
- Congress from imposing unequal conditions on new states (Correct answer)
New states cannot be made inferior.
- States from having different laws
States can have different laws.
- States from having different populations
Populations naturally vary.
- Federal courts from operating in new states
Federal courts operate in all states.
Explanation: The doctrine prevents conditions that would make new states unequal.
Question 6: State equality ensures _____ footing.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: equal
Options: equal, same, fair, level
Explanation: State equality ensures equal footing.
Question 7: Texas and Hawaii compared to original 13 colonies:
Answer options:
- Have identical constitutional status (Correct answer)
All states are equal under the Constitution.
- Have fewer voting rights
All states have equal rights.
- Must defer to original states
No state is superior to another.
- Cannot amend the Constitution
All states participate in amendments.
Explanation: All states have equal constitutional status.
Question 8: New states receive _____ representation.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: full
Options: full, complete, equal, total
Explanation: New states receive full representation.
Question 9: State equality preserves:
Answer options:
- The federal system of equal sovereign states (Correct answer)
Federalism depends on state equality.
- Congressional supremacy
States are sovereign, not subordinate.
- Presidential power over states
States are independent of presidential control.
- Judicial authority over states
States are equal sovereigns.
Explanation: State equality preserves federalism.
Question 10: The equal footing doctrine protects _____ sovereignty.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: state
Options: state, federal, national, territorial
Explanation: The doctrine protects state sovereignty.
Interstate Comity - Quick Quiz
Mutual respect and cooperation between state governments
Question 1: Interstate comity means:
Answer options:
- Mutual respect between state governments (Correct answer)
Comity involves interstate cooperation.
- States compete against each other
Comity is about cooperation, not competition.
- Federal control of states
Comity is between states, not federal.
- States ignore each other
Comity requires recognition and respect.
Explanation: States show mutual respect and cooperation.
Question 2: Comity requires states to:
Answer options:
- Recognize other states official acts (Correct answer)
Comity includes recognition of laws and judgments.
- Copy other states laws exactly
States maintain different laws.
- Report to a central authority
States are independent.
- Share all tax revenue
States maintain fiscal independence.
Explanation: States must give effect to other states laws in certain situations.
Question 3: Interstate comity supports:
Answer options:
- National unity among diverse states (Correct answer)
Comity binds states together.
- State secession
Comity supports unity, not separation.
- Federal dominance
Comity is horizontal, between states.
- State isolation
Comity promotes cooperation.
Explanation: Comity supports national unity.
Question 4: Comity promotes _____ between states.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: cooperation
Options: cooperation, harmony, unity, respect
Explanation: Comity promotes cooperation between states.
Question 5: Without interstate comity:
Answer options:
- States would function like separate hostile nations (Correct answer)
Comity prevents interstate conflict.
- The federal government would be stronger
Comity is about state relations.
- Citizens would have more rights
Comity protects rights across states.
- There would be no difference
Comity is essential for interstate relations.
Explanation: Without comity, states would be like hostile nations.
Question 6: Interstate comity reflects _____ respect.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: mutual
Options: mutual, shared, common, reciprocal
Explanation: Interstate comity reflects mutual respect.
Question 7: Comity helps ensure that:
Answer options:
- Citizens traveling between states are treated fairly (Correct answer)
Comity protects interstate travelers.
- States have identical laws
States maintain different laws.
- The President controls state affairs
States are independent.
- Courts are unnecessary
Courts enforce comity principles.
Explanation: Comity ensures citizens are treated fairly in other states.
Question 8: Comity involves _____ recognition of state actions.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: reciprocal
Options: reciprocal, mutual, shared, joint
Explanation: Comity involves reciprocal recognition.
Question 9: Interstate comity is similar to:
Answer options:
- Diplomatic courtesy between friendly nations (Correct answer)
Comity is like international diplomacy.
- Military alliances
Comity is not military.
- Trade agreements
Comity is broader than trade.
- Congressional mandates
Comity is between states, not from Congress.
Explanation: Comity is similar to diplomatic courtesy between nations.
Question 10: Comity strengthens the _____ union.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: federal
Options: federal, national, American, constitutional
Explanation: Comity strengthens the federal union.
Republican Government - Quick Quiz
Representative democracy, not monarchy or direct democracy required
Question 1: A republican government is characterized by:
Answer options:
- Elected representatives who make laws (Correct answer)
Representatives govern on behalf of the people.
- A king with absolute power
Monarchy is not republican.
- Citizens voting on every law directly
That is direct democracy, not republican.
- Military leaders ruling
Military rule is not republican.
Explanation: Republican government uses elected representatives.
Question 2: The Founders chose republican government because:
Answer options:
- It balances popular will with reasoned deliberation (Correct answer)
Representatives can deliberate more effectively.
- It was the only system they knew
They studied many systems.
- It gives more power to the wealthy
Republican government serves all citizens.
- It requires less participation
Citizens participate through elections.
Explanation: Republican government balances popular will with deliberation.
Question 3: Republican government differs from direct democracy by:
Answer options:
- Using elected representatives instead of direct votes (Correct answer)
Representatives decide issues.
- Excluding citizens from voting
Citizens elect representatives.
- Having a king
Republican government has no king.
- Using random selection
Representatives are elected.
Explanation: Representatives make decisions rather than direct citizen votes.
Question 4: Republican government relies on _____ representatives.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: elected
Options: elected, chosen, selected, appointed
Explanation: Republican government relies on elected representatives.
Question 5: The republican form protects against:
Answer options:
- Tyranny of the majority through deliberation (Correct answer)
Representatives can resist mob rule.
- All forms of government
Republican is itself a form of government.
- Elections
Republican government requires elections.
- Constitutional limits
Republican government includes constitutional limits.
Explanation: Republican government protects against tyranny of the majority.
Question 6: Republican government requires _____ elections.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: regular
Options: regular, periodic, frequent, ongoing
Explanation: Republican government requires regular elections.
Question 7: James Madison favored republican government because:
Answer options:
- It could control dangerous factions (Correct answer)
Federalist 10 explains factional control.
- It was easiest to establish
Madison had deeper reasons.
- It gave him personal power
Madison argued for principle.
- It was required by Britain
America rejected British monarchy.
Explanation: Madison believed it could control factions.
Question 8: Representatives serve for _____ terms.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: fixed
Options: fixed, set, limited, defined
Explanation: Representatives serve for fixed terms.
Question 9: Republican government ensures:
Answer options:
- Government derives power from consent of the governed (Correct answer)
Elections provide consent.
- The wealthy control government
All citizens can vote.
- Government is permanent
Elections allow change.
- No one has power
Representatives have governing power.
Explanation: Republican government ensures government by consent.
Question 10: Republican government protects _____ rights.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: individual
Options: individual, personal, citizen, minority
Explanation: Republican government protects individual rights.
Federal Protection - Quick Quiz
U.S. protects states against invasion and domestic violence
Question 1: The federal government must protect states against:
Answer options:
- Invasion and domestic violence (Correct answer)
Article IV guarantees federal protection.
- High taxes
Tax policy is not covered by this protection.
- Bad weather
Natural disasters are not constitutional invasions.
- Unpopular elections
Elections are state matters.
Explanation: States are protected against invasion and domestic violence.
Question 2: States can request federal troops when facing:
Answer options:
- Domestic violence the state cannot control (Correct answer)
Federal troops can assist with major unrest.
- Any law enforcement need
Routine policing is state responsibility.
- Political opposition
Political disputes do not justify troops.
- Budget shortfalls
Fiscal issues do not justify military aid.
Explanation: States can request help for domestic violence.
Question 3: Federal protection of states reflects:
Answer options:
- The federal compact between states and national government (Correct answer)
States gave up defense powers in exchange for protection.
- Federal superiority over states
Protection is a mutual obligation.
- State weakness
States retain substantial power.
- Military dominance
Protection is for emergencies only.
Explanation: Protection reflects the federal compact.
Question 4: The federal government provides _____ protection.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: military
Options: military, armed, defense, security
Explanation: The federal government provides military protection.
Question 5: During the Civil War, federal protection meant:
Answer options:
- Defending loyal states from Confederate forces (Correct answer)
The Union protected states under attack.
- Allowing secession
The Union fought secession.
- Ignoring state requests
The Union responded to threats.
- Disbanding the military
Military force was used extensively.
Explanation: The Union protected loyal states from Confederate invasion.
Question 6: States are protected from _____ threats.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: external
Options: external, foreign, outside, invasion
Explanation: States are protected from external threats.
Question 7: Federal troops can be deployed to a state:
Answer options:
- On state request or to enforce federal law (Correct answer)
Both pathways exist.
- Whenever the President wants
There must be legal justification.
- Only during declared wars
Domestic deployments are also possible.
- Never
Federal troops can be deployed domestically.
Explanation: Troops can be deployed on state request or to enforce federal law.
Question 8: Protection includes defense against _____ violence.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: domestic
Options: domestic, internal, civil, local
Explanation: Protection includes defense against domestic violence.
Question 9: The Insurrection Act allows the President to:
Answer options:
- Deploy federal troops to suppress rebellion (Correct answer)
The Act provides this authority.
- Declare martial law unilaterally
The Act has specific conditions.
- Abolish state governments
State governments are protected.
- Override all state laws
The Act is limited in scope.
Explanation: The Act allows deployment of troops to suppress insurrection.
Question 10: Federal protection preserves _____ integrity.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: state
Options: state, territorial, national, federal
Explanation: Federal protection preserves state integrity.
State Borders - Quick Quiz
States cannot be divided or merged without consent
Question 1: State borders can only be changed with:
Answer options:
- Consent of affected states and Congress (Correct answer)
Both state and Congressional consent required.
- Presidential order
The President cannot change state borders.
- Supreme Court ruling
Courts settle disputes but do not redesign states.
- Popular vote nationwide
Only affected states and Congress decide.
Explanation: Consent is required to change state boundaries.
Question 2: A state cannot be divided without:
Answer options:
- Its own consent (Correct answer)
States cannot be divided against their will.
- Presidential approval only
State consent is also required.
- Supreme Court order
Courts cannot divide states.
- International approval
This is a domestic matter.
Explanation: State consent is required for division.
Question 3: State border protection ensures:
Answer options:
- States cannot be broken up by federal action alone (Correct answer)
State consent protects territorial integrity.
- Borders never change
Borders can change with consent.
- Only original states are protected
All states are protected equally.
- The President controls all territory
States control their territory.
Explanation: Border protection ensures territorial integrity.
Question 4: State borders require _____ consent to change.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: state
Options: state, federal, congressional, mutual
Explanation: State borders require state consent to change.
Question 5: West Virginias separation from Virginia required:
Answer options:
- Congressional approval and claimed Virginia consent (Correct answer)
The Wheeling government claimed to speak for Virginia.
- Only a popular vote in West Virginia
Congressional action was also required.
- Supreme Court approval
Courts did not approve the separation.
- No formal approval
There was a formal process.
Explanation: Both Virginia (loyalist) consent and Congress were involved.
Question 6: Border disputes are settled by _____ action.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: congressional
Options: congressional, federal, national, judicial
Explanation: Border disputes are settled by Congressional or judicial action.
Question 7: Two states want to merge. What must happen?
Answer options:
- Both state legislatures and Congress must approve (Correct answer)
All parties must consent to merger.
- Only a popular vote is needed
Legislative approval is also required.
- The President can order it
The President cannot merge states.
- The Supreme Court must approve
Courts do not approve mergers.
Explanation: Both states and Congress must consent.
Question 8: State borders protect _____ sovereignty.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: state
Options: state, territorial, regional, local
Explanation: State borders protect state sovereignty.
Question 9: Border protection prevents:
Answer options:
- Federal gerrymandering of state boundaries (Correct answer)
Congress cannot redesign states unilaterally.
- All territorial disputes
Disputes can still occur.
- State cooperation
Cooperation is encouraged.
- Interstate commerce
Commerce is not affected by border rules.
Explanation: Border protection prevents federal gerrymandering of states.
Question 10: Border rules protect state _____ integrity.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: territorial
Options: territorial, geographic, physical, boundary
Explanation: Border rules protect state territorial integrity.
Public Records Recognition - Quick Quiz
Birth certificates, deeds, contracts valid across state lines
Question 1: Public records recognition means:
Answer options:
- States must honor other states official documents (Correct answer)
Birth certificates and court records are valid everywhere.
- All records are public information
Recognition is about validity, not access.
- Federal government keeps all records
States maintain their own records.
- Records can be ignored across state lines
Recognition is mandatory.
Explanation: States must recognize other states official documents.
Question 2: A birth certificate issued in Texas is:
Answer options:
- Valid as proof of birth in all 50 states (Correct answer)
Full faith and credit applies.
- Only valid in Texas
All states must recognize it.
- Requires federal approval elsewhere
No federal approval is needed.
- Subject to each states review
Recognition is automatic.
Explanation: Birth certificates are valid in all states.
Question 3: Public records recognition supports:
Answer options:
- Citizens ability to move freely between states (Correct answer)
Documents follow citizens across states.
- State independence from federal law
Recognition is a constitutional requirement.
- Privacy of all records
Recognition is about validity, not privacy.
- Federal record-keeping
States keep their own records.
Explanation: Recognition supports interstate mobility.
Question 4: States must recognize other states _____ records.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: public
Options: public, official, state, legal
Explanation: States must recognize other states public records.
Question 5: Without records recognition:
Answer options:
- Marriage and property documents could be challenged in every state (Correct answer)
Recognition prevents document chaos.
- States would be more unified
Lack of recognition causes problems.
- Federal courts would handle all records
States maintain records authority.
- Citizens would have more freedom
Document uncertainty reduces freedom.
Explanation: Without recognition, basic documents would be invalid across states.
Question 6: Records recognition is _____ under the Constitution.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: mandatory
Options: mandatory, required, compulsory, obligatory
Explanation: Records recognition is mandatory under the Constitution.
Question 7: Examples of recognized public records include:
Answer options:
- Court judgments, property deeds, and vital records (Correct answer)
These are all public records.
- Only federal documents
State documents are also recognized.
- Only birth certificates
Many types of records are recognized.
- Only documents less than 10 years old
Age does not affect recognition.
Explanation: Court judgments, deeds, and vital records are recognized.
Question 8: Records recognition ensures document _____.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: validity
Options: validity, acceptance, recognition, authenticity
Explanation: Records recognition ensures document validity.
Question 9: A court judgment from California must be:
Answer options:
- Enforced in all other states (Correct answer)
Full faith and credit requires enforcement.
- Retried in each new state
Judgments are final across states.
- Approved by federal courts first
No federal approval is needed.
- Valid only in Western states
Judgments are valid nationwide.
Explanation: Court judgments must be enforced in all states.
Question 10: Public records create _____ continuity.
Fill in the blank(s):
Blank 1: legal
Options: legal, document, record, official
Explanation: Public records create legal continuity.
Historical Context
Under the [Articles of Confederation](https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/articles-of-confederation), states operated like semi-independent nations—refusing to honor each other's currencies, court judgments, or legal acts. Article IV created the legal infrastructure for genuine union. The [Fugitive Slave Clause](https://constitution.congress.gov/browse/article-4/section-2/clause-3/) was one of the Constitution's most contested compromises: free states had to return escaped enslaved people to slaveholders in other states. Northern states resisted through personal liberty laws—state statutes protecting Black residents from kidnapping. The Supreme Court struck down Pennsylvania's personal liberty law in [*Prigg v. Pennsylvania* (1842)](https://www.oyez.org/cases/1840-1860/41us539), ruling that federal rendition law preempted state interference. The [Thirteenth Amendment (1865)](https://constitution.congress.gov/browse/amendment-13/) made the Fugitive Slave Clause a dead letter. The Guarantee Clause—requiring a "Republican Form of Government" in every state—was invoked during Reconstruction to justify federal intervention in former Confederate states. The Supreme Court held in [*Luther v. Borden* (1849)](https://www.oyez.org/cases/1850-1900/48us1) that determining which government in a state was the legitimate one was a political question for Congress, not courts—a position it has maintained ever since.
How This Shows Up Today
- Post-Dobbs abortion travel: Can states criminalize travel for out-of-state abortions?
- Respect for Marriage Act (2022): Codified interstate marriage recognition after Obergefell concerns
- Puerto Rico and D.C. statehood: Admission debates invoke Article IV processes
- Interstate license compacts: Nurses, teachers, drivers recognized across state lines
- Child custody disputes: Which state's custody order controls in interstate cases?
- Gun permit reciprocity: Whether states must honor other states' concealed carry permits
- Interstate extradition: Governors occasionally resist returning defendants
- Cannabis legalization conflicts: Federal-state and state-state tensions
Discussion Questions8
The Full Faith and Credit Clause requires recognizing judgments and records, but states have limited ability to refuse laws violating strong public policy. Before Obergefell v. Hodges (2015), some states refused to recognize same-sex marriages. After Dobbs v. Jackson (2022), similar conflicts arise with abortion. Courts balance comity against states' right to set their own policies on a case-by-case basis.
This is untested. Some states have considered prosecuting people who travel for abortions or those who help them. Constitutional limits may apply—the right to travel is fundamental, and states generally can't regulate conduct entirely outside their borders. But creative prosecution theories could reach courts.
Congress has sole discretion over statehood. Puerto Rico has held multiple referenda with mixed results. D.C. statehood has passed the House but failed in the Senate. Opponents argue D.C. requires a constitutional amendment and that both would add Democratic seats. Supporters cite taxation without representation for millions of Americans.
The Guarantee Clause requires 'Republican Form of Government' but federal courts have deemed it non-justiciable—a political question for Congress. If a state abolished elections or created one-party rule, Congress could theoretically refuse to seat its representatives or take other action. The mechanism is untested in the modern era.
Currently they don't—each state sets its own standards. Interstate compacts exist for some professions (nursing, medicine). Full portability would help workers but raises concerns about state authority over professional standards. Federal legislation could preempt state licensing but faces federalism objections.
The Parental Kidnapping Prevention Act and Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act provide frameworks, but conflicts persist. Generally, the child's home state has jurisdiction. After Dobbs, new conflicts arise when parents disagree about gender-affirming care or abortion access for minors. Courts navigate these case by case.
Extradition is constitutionally mandatory, but enforcement is limited. Before 1987, governors occasionally refused for political reasons. The Supreme Court held in Puerto Rico v. Branstad that courts can order compliance. In practice, governors now comply, but disputes arise over whether alleged conduct was criminal where it occurred.
Not directly—Full Faith and Credit doesn't require states to adopt each other's policies. The conflict is between state and federal law. Cannabis remains federally illegal under the Controlled Substances Act. Federal enforcement discretion has allowed state programs to operate. The conflict persists because Congress hasn't acted to resolve it.
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