Phi Eta's History Blog

While browsing through the Federal History Section on H-Net I stumbled upon a very unique discussion thread that actually began as an inquisition as to where one might find sources. The thread started with an individual from the UK posing the question: Are there any sources available that might help me prove that federal crime control policies (in the U.S.) have helped expand the power of the federal government within (typically) state jurisdiction. Now, the article began with people jumping to assist the man with sources, however it became more clear over time that this is a broad topic and there are many different instances throughout United States History where this has occurred. Originally, the man searching for the post was simply referencing and believing that this had been the case starting the the 1950's and moving forward throughout the last 60 years through organized crime fighting. In all actuality, the federal bureau of investigations investigative research show files from 1908 and forward, and more on that, one mustn't overlook all of the historic instances throughout the 19th century where U.S. federal marshals took matters into their own hands.
What I found most interesting about this discussion thread is that there wasn't a question as to whether or not the federal government had expanded its power in criminal policies, but it was unanimous that, indeed, they have. The question soon became to what extent? As the discussion went on people began to acknowledge that the federal government hasn't stopped with organized crime (typically within large cities), but has began to gain more control in rural locations as well. People showed historic examples of army bases busting down illegal "whorehouses" within the last hundred years even though it wasn't within their jurisdiction, they just happened to be within miles of one and took action.
Ultimately, what can be concluded from this topic is that the federal government has expanded its jurisdiction and interfered with states responsibilities. That, was unanimous.
-Trey Hansen