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Today in History: John Marshall takes office as chief justice

2/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On February 4, 1801, John Marshall was appointed as the Chief Justice of the United States. His tenure, lasting until 1835, established the Supreme Court as a coequal branch of government and solidified the principle of judicial review, significantly shaping U.S. constitutional law and the balance of powers among the branches of government.

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Story summary

On February 4, 1801, John Marshall was appointed as the Chief Justice of the United States. His tenure, lasting until 1835, established the Supreme Court as a coequal branch of government and solidified the principle of judicial review, significantly shaping U.S. constitutional law and the balance of powers among the branches of government.