The History of the Supreme Court

 Established in 1789, the United States Supreme Court is steeped in over 200 years of precedence and controversy. It wasn’t until fourteen years after its inception that the Supreme Court attained the notoriety worthy of its standing as the highest and most powerful court in our nation that was also looked upon as a model to emulate from other nations. The United States Supreme Court evolved as our nation evolved. In 1789, the Supreme Court was made up of six justices which has evolved into nine justices today. Supreme Court justices’ tenure is for life or until voluntary retirement. In 1803, highly respected Chief Justice John Marshall elevated not only his own reputation but the reputation of the Supreme Court by creating judicial review - the power to review and keep in check the actions of the executive and legislative branches of government with one of the most critical cases heard by the Supreme Court, Marbury v. Madison 1803. Being the highest court in our nation, it would be reasonable to think the United States Supreme Court would be inundated with caseload annually. However, just 7000 petitions for certiorari cases are received by the Supreme Court every year. Of those 7000 cases, only a fraction is heard. After thorough deliberation and circumspection amongst the Justices, the 7000 cases are narrowed down to approximately 100. The Supreme Court hears cases they deem most important and of highest national interest. The workings of the United States Supreme Court are deeply complex. In order for the people to embrace the Supreme Court’s decision on case law, the Supreme Court must work for the people to fulfill their Constitutional right and promise of equal justice under the rule of law.

Statue of John Marshal That Used To Stand In Front of The Supreme Court