John Marshall

John Marshall, a towering figure in American legal history, was a statesman, jurist, and Founding Father who left an indelible mark on the U.S. judicial system. Serving as the fourth Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court from 1801 until his death in 1835, Marshall's tenure was the longest in the court's history, spanning over three decades. Born in rural Virginia, Marshall's journey took him through the Revolutionary War, the halls of Congress, and the executive branch as Secretary of State under President John Adams. His most enduring legacy, however, lies in his judicial contributions. Marshall established the principle of judicial review, asserting the Supreme Court's authority to interpret the constitutionality of laws—a power that has shaped the American legal landscape ever since. His landmark cases, such as Marbury v. Madison and McCulloch v. Maryland, solidified the Court's role as a coequal branch of government, ensuring its independence and influence. Marshall's work not only defined the judiciary but also cemented the Constitution as the bedrock of American law, making him one of the most influential figures in the nation's legal and political history.