Chief Justice John Marshall's Legacy

Throughout our history, many individuals have left a legacy, or something for which they will be remembered. For instance, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is known for his advocacy of civil rights for African Americans. John Marshall is remembered for the decisions he made while Chief Justice of the United States.

Marbury v. Madison was the first case that was heard by the Supreme Court of the United States after John Marshall became Chief Justice of the United States. In the opinion he wrote for that case, Marshall foreshadowed the views he would express in later decisions. Among these cases are McCulloch v. Maryland, Cohens v. Virginia, and Gibbons v. Ogden.

Click on the links to read the synopsis of each of these cases. As you read, look for commonalties in each of the decisions. When you are finished reading, respond to the following:

1. What were Marshall's beliefs regarding the power of the federal government? In your answer, cite evidence from the cases.
    
2. What were Marshall's beliefs regarding the power of the judicial branch? In your answer, cite evidence from the cases.
    
3. What is Marshall's legacy? In other words, what long-term impact did his decisions have on future cases and on the United States as a whole?
    
4. Who would have liked Marshall's decisions? Who would have disliked them?
    
5. Create a poster in which you commemorate Chief Justice John Marshall as a "National Hero" or a "Wanted" Man. If you choose to do a National Hero poster, list at least two reasons why he is a national hero. On the poster, include the name of the organization that is "honoring" him. If you choose to do a "Wanted" poster, list at least two reasons why he is "wanted." Include the name of the organization that is "looking" for him.