Question

Consider the expressed, nonlegislative powers related to patents and copyrights. Why did the Founding Fathers include these ideas in the expressed powers of congress? How have patents and copyrights contributed to U.S history and identity?

Answer 1

At the beginning of the 20th century, the United States (US) was a burgeoning superpower. US industrial and manufacturing rivalled that of the European great powers, bridging a gap that would take many countries another 100 years of progress.

Such pungent economy was the result of unrestrained capitalism, private capital and investments instead of government policy. The wealth created fed the pursuit of knowledge, late 19th century America became the creative hub of the world, conceiving hundreds of new inventions like the telegraph, telephone, electric power and lighting.

Patente laws and copyrights were essential to ensure the continued development of the economy and the trust of investors in the potential of the United States. The Country, albeit knew when compared to European powers, inspired the trust  of investors and attracted scientists thanks to such laws.