John Marshall Influence

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Being the longest-serving Chief Justice, dominating the court for 34 years, John Marshall was an enormous influence on the American court system in the 1800’s. He not only refined the powers of each branch of the government but also had a pivotal role in laying the foundation for constitutional law within our nation. John Marshall grew up home-schooled by his father in a rural area near Germantown, Virginia. In order to further his education, he spent a year at Campbell Academy with future President James Monroe as a classmate. As a young adult he was heavily influenced by George Washington who inspired him to serve the country during the Revolutionary War leading Marshall to fight with bravery and fortitude and eventually become a captain …show more content…

With this education, John Marshall immersed himself into the world of law and order and set up his own practice. Marshall’s reputation as a fair man and his belief in a strong federal government continued to grow and shape his career. He continued to increase his role in the US Federal Government until finally he was nominated by President Adams to be Chief Justice of the US on January 20th, 1801. Starting from February 4th, 1801, when he was sworn in, Marshall’s opinion played a climatic role in high profile cases. In the Marbury vs. Madison case, he initiated the process of judicial review. This momentous change is what sets the scene for the developments that were to come. In two highly influential cases, McCulloch vs. the State of Maryland, and Gibbons vs. Ogden, the Supreme Court, under the guidance of Marshall, ruled that the federal judiciary can reverse the decisions made by state courts. These changes represent the groundwork for the US Supreme Court and continue to be reflected in today’s society. In 1821, John Marshall’s amends to the system of the law continued as, in Cohens vs. Virginia, the ruling assisted in establishing the parameters for conflicting local and state laws. John Marshall continued proudly serving on the Supreme Court until his death on July 6th, 1835. By this time Marshall was revered as a brilliant man, and was loved by the nation. During his funeral, as a mark of honor,