What was the topic of most of the federal court cases prior to the civil war?

Prior to the Civil War, most federal court cases centered around issues of federalism, particularly the balance of power between state and federal governments. Key topics included slavery, states' rights, and economic regulations, with landmark cases like Dred Scott v. Sandford highlighting the contentiousness over slavery and its expansion into new territories. Additionally, cases involving commerce and contracts were significant, reflecting the growing economic complexities of the nation.