Final answer:
The ruling solidified the federal government's power by affirming its ability to exercise implied powers and establishing the principle of national supremacy over state laws.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ruling strengthened the federal government by establishing the principles of implied powers and national supremacy. Implied powers gave Congress broader discretion to fulfill constitutional responsibilities, while national supremacy asserted the dominance of federal law over conflicting state laws. These principles affirmed the federal government's authority within its constitutional domain and prevented states from interfering with its functions, such as through taxation.
The Supreme Court's decision in cases such as McCulloch v. Maryland and others during the period between 1819 and the 1860s reflected the evolution of a strong federal system within the United States. It articulated a clear demarcation of power between the national and state governments, barring states from any action that could undermine the effective operation of the national government.