Why the Supreme Court Is Relevant | Marbury v. Madison

In 1801, President John Adams made last-minute judicial appointments before leaving office, including William Marbury. However, Thomas Jefferson, upon becoming president, instructed his Secretary of State, James Madison, to withhold some commissions, including Marbury's. Marbury petitioned the Supreme Court, leading to a landmark decision. The Court, led by Chief Justice John Marshall, ruled that while Marbury was entitled to his commission, the Judiciary Act of 1789 was unconstitutional. This case established the principle of judicial review, allowing the Supreme Court to declare laws unconstitutional, significantly enhancing its power.

What was President John Adams' main goal in making last-minute appointments before leaving office?

• To create new laws before his term ended

• To strengthen the Democratic-Republican Party

• To prevent Thomas Jefferson from becoming President

• To ensure his Federalist friends were in key positions

Why did Thomas Jefferson instruct James Madison to deliver only some of the commissions?

• He was unaware of the commissions

• He lost the list of nominees

• He only wanted to appoint those he favored

• He wanted to save money

What action did William Marbury take when he did not receive his commission?

• He sought help from Congress

• He appealed directly to Thomas Jefferson

• He petitioned the Supreme Court to deliver the commission

• He accepted the decision and moved on

What was the Supreme Court's decision regarding the Judiciary Act of 1789?

• It needed to be revised by Congress

• It was irrelevant to the case

• It was unconstitutional and expanded the Court's power

• It was constitutional and should be upheld

What significant power did the Supreme Court establish through the Marbury v. Madison case?

• The power to impeach the President

• The power of judicial review

• The power to veto laws

• The power to appoint justices