United States Supreme Court

  The United States has the privilege and honor of being one of the most powerful countries in the world. However, with great power comes great responsibility, and that responsibility is held by the United States Supreme Court. The Supreme Court is the highest federal court in the country, and has the ultimate power to make legal decisions in the United States, as well as deciding if laws are constitutional or not.

    The Supreme Court was established by the United States Constitution, in Article III along with the ruling that Congress has the power to establish less powerful federal courts, essentially meaning state governments. The Supreme Court was organized by Congress, and ultimately was established by the Judiciary Act of 1789, officially being signed off by President George Washington. The first Supreme Court had six Justices, and it was decided to ensure stability and security for the nation, they were to be in power until they perish or retire. The first Supreme Court Meeting was in February of 1790, and their first decision was given on August 3, 1791. Presently, Supreme Court Justices are nominated by the President of the United States, and ultimately confirmed on by the United States Senate. 

   

    The current council of nine justices, changed from six in 1869 meet twice a week, discussing necessary topics decided on by the Chief Justice, who is the highest judicial officer in the nation. The change to nine was decided so that the court would avoid an even split on decisions.The Supreme Court’s power stands alone as it has been pivotal in many important decisions throughout history ultimately shaping the United States government and the country today. Among the multiple court cases heard by the court  are Dred Scott v. Sandford, Roe v. Wade and Plessy v. Ferguson, all of which have had an instrumental impact on civil rights of American citizens.

 

    The Supreme Court has one of the toughest jobs in the world, ultimately putting the fate of the United States in its hands with its decisions. However, the role of the Supreme Court and the evolution of our country because of them has gone unnoticed throughout history. Without them, the United States would struggle to come to decisions on cases, bans, and new laws.