Beginning of Essay
The 1803 case resulted in the most important Supreme Court decision in history. The court's ruling established the power of judicial review, solidified the Constitutional system of checks and balances, strengthened the power of the federal government, and made t ....

Middle of Essay
.... so-called "midnight judges." In the final weeks before Jefferson took office, John Marshall was Secretary of State and Chief Justice simultaneously. As Secretary of State, he had the task of delivering these commissions. In the press of business before Adams left office he delivered all but seventeen. Marshall left these on his desk for the incoming Secretary, James Madison, to deliver. Outraged by Adams' appointments, Jefferson ordered Madison not to deliver the commissions. Four of the uncommissioned justices of the peace, including William Marbury, sought a writ of mandamus, or order directing Madison to deliver the commissions. Madi ....