John Marshall

John Marshall (1755-1835) was an influential American statesman and jurist who served as the fourth Chief Justice of the United States from 1801 to 1835. He played a key role in establishing the principles of American constitutional law and affirming the power of the Supreme Court. Notably, his decision in Marbury v. Madison (1803) established the principle of judicial review, allowing the Court to invalidate laws that conflicted with the Constitution. Marshall’s leadership greatly shaped the development of the judiciary and reinforced the federal government's authority, impacting the balance of power in the United States.