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The Birth of the Supreme Court
The only court specifically established by the Constitution. Implemented by the Judiciary Act of 1789. Convened for the first time on February 2, 1790 -
John Jay
The 1st Cheif Justice of the Supreme Court. Appointed by Washington. Was Governor of NY for 5 years. Nominated by Jefferson for a second term but declined. -
John Marshall
The 4th Chief Justice of the United States. Under Marshall, the Supreme Court became the branch of federal government most aggressive in protecting the new forms of business central to the growing market economy of the 19th century. -
Marbury vs. Madison
Gave the Supreme Court final authority to decide whether the actions of the President or Congress was constitutional or not. -
Fletcher vs. Peck
This case greatly expanded the meaning of the contract clause. It gave protection to contracts both public and private. -
Dartmouth College vs. Woodward
Stated that land charters were also contracts and could not be changed by later legislatures, even if it was proclaimed by George III -
McCulloch v. Maryland
This case upheld the constitutionality of the Second Bank of the United States. The Supreme Court argued that they had the right to make all "necessary and proper" laws to carry out its delegated powers. -
Gibbons vs. Ogden
Aaron Ogden held a monopoly over steamboat traffice in the Hudson R, Thomas Gibbons set up a competing line, Ogden sued. Gave Marshall a chance to define the Supreme Court's power over the regulation of interstate commerce. He gave the word "commerce" the broadest possible definition. The Court's involvement increased business competition throughout society. -
Worcester v. Georgia
Worcester and six other missionairies settled on Cherokee land. The sate of Georgia said they could not live on Cherokee land without a licence. The men refused and were arrested and sentenced to 4 years hard labor. Worcester appealed to the Supreme Court that Georgia had no right to make that law on Cherokee land, the national government did. Andrew Jackson agreed, and the men were released, but asked to leave. They complied.
