Gibbons v. Ogden
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Origins
Aaron Ogden ran steamboats between New York City and New Jersey. The New York state legislature granted him a monopoly the right to operate this service without any competition. However, Thomas Gibbons ran a a competing service. He had a license to sail under the monopoly. When the New York state courts found in Ogden's favor, Gibbons appealed to the United States Supreme Court.
The Ruling
In a unanimous decision, the Court ruled that where state and federal laws on interstate commerce conflict, federal laws are superior.
The Issue
The power to regulate interstate commerce
