John Marshall
A politician and lawyer who served as the fourth Chief Justice of the US (1801-1835)
Real World Example
John Marshall was a significant figure in American history, serving as the fourth Chief Justice of the United States from 1801 to 1835. During his tenure, he helped establish the principle of judicial review with the landmark case Marbury v. Madison, which allowed the Supreme Court to declare laws unconstitutional. This decision strengthened the judicial branch and ensured that the Constitution would be the supreme law of the land. Marshall's actions mattered at the time because they helped balance the power among the three branches of government, ensuring that no single branch could dominate the others. Today, his legacy affects us whenever the Supreme Court makes a decision on issues like civil rights or healthcare, reminding us that the judiciary can protect our rights and uphold the Constitution.
