John Marshall

Paper Summary:

This paper explores the life of Chief Justice John Marshall. The writer shows how during his 34 years as a Chief Justice, John Marshall raised the Supreme Court from an inconsequential position in the Federal government to one of power and prestige. The paper shows how Marshall's contribution shaped the Constitution by the breadth and wisdom of his interpretation.

From the Paper:

"Marshall's beliefs stemmed back several years before his placement on the Supreme Court. Off and on from 1782 to 1796 he was politically active in the Virginia House of Delegates. He became a leader of the Federalist Party, which had already soured Jefferson. It was during Marshall's tenure in the House of Delegates that he became involved in the Virginia Convention debates about the adoption of the Constitution. As an anti-Federalist, Patrick Henry was opposed to a "United States" Constitution and against a strong judiciary. He pledged his first loyalty to his state."

More papers on John Marshall:

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