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Today in History: Samuel Chase acquitted after historic impeachment trial

3/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On March 1, 1805, Samuel Chase, the only U.S. Supreme Court Justice to be impeached, was acquitted by the Senate. Impeached by the House of Representatives for alleged partisan bias in his rulings, Chase's acquittal reaffirmed the independence of the judiciary and set a precedent for future judicial conduct. He remained in office after the trial.

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Story summary

On March 1, 1805, Samuel Chase, the only U.S. Supreme Court Justice to be impeached, was acquitted by the Senate. Impeached by the House of Representatives for alleged partisan bias in his rulings, Chase's acquittal reaffirmed the independence of the judiciary and set a precedent for future judicial conduct. He remained in office after the trial.