Marbury v. Madison

Front

Who was William Marbury?

Back

one of John Adams' "Midnight Judges" that he appointed at the very end of his term

Front

Who was James Madison and why did Marbury bring a case against him?

Back

Secretary of State under Jefferson who was told not to deliver Marbury's commission as a new federal judge

Front

The Supreme Court's decision in the Marbury case was that while Marbury did have the right to his commission, the Supreme Court felt that

Back

they didn't have the right to issue the writ of mandamus to actually rule in his favor

Front

Did Marbury ever receive his commission (did he get appointed to the judicial job Adams gave him)?

Back

No

Front

The outcome of the case led the Supreme Court to declare that the Judiciary Act of 1789 was _______ (meaning it violates the Constitution and is therefore not permitted)

Back

unconstitutional

Front

What did the Marbury v. Madison ruling mark for the first time?

Back

the Supreme Court struck down an act of Congress for being unconstitutional

Front

The Marbury v. Madison ruling is considered a landmark (important) case because it established the power of judicial review meaning that

Back

the Supreme Court can interpret the Constitution and decide what it means

Front

The Marbury v. Madison case is significant because it cements the equal status of the Judicial Branch to the Executive Branch and Legislative Branch by allowing it to limit the power of these branches. In this sense, judicial review is an example of what principle?

Back

checks and balances

Front

Which court is highest?

Back

Supreme Court

Front

Which of the following statements most accurately describes judicial review?

Back

the power to declare laws unconstitutional