What did the Supreme Court case Marbury v. Madison establish?

• A. Executive privilege
• B. Judicial review
• C. Checks and balances
• D. States' rights

Answer: (B)

The Supreme Court case Marbury v. Madison is significant for establishing the principle of judicial review, which is the power of the courts to examine and invalidate actions of the legislative and executive branches if they are found to be unconstitutional. In this case, Chief Justice John Marshall articulated that it is the duty of the judiciary to uphold the Constitution and ensure that no law or action by the government contravenes it. This landmark decision fundamentally elevated the role of the Supreme Court within the American government system, allowing it to serve as a check on the powers of the other branches, thereby maintaining the balance of power as intended by the framers of the Constitution. Judicial review remains a cornerstone of American constitutional law, reinforcing the judiciary's crucial role in interpreting the Constitution and protecting individual rights against government overreach.