Marbury v. Madison established what principle?

• A. Established the principle of judicial review and gave the Supreme Court the power to strike down laws.
• B. Prohibited slavery in federal territories.
• C. Established the supremacy of the states over federal government.
• D. Affirmed the right to freedom of the press.

Answer: (A)

Judicial review—the power of the Supreme Court to evaluate laws and executive actions and declare them unconstitutional. Marbury v. Madison established this principle, giving the Court the final say in interpreting the Constitution and striking down any law or action that conflicts with it. The decision arose from a dispute over a commission and concluded that while Marbury had a right to his appointment, part of the Judiciary Act enabling the Court to issue that kind of writ extended beyond the Constitution’s limits, so the Court could not grant it. This ruling solidified the judiciary as a check on both Congress and the presidency, ensuring that constitutional limits guide national power. The other options describe protections or powers not addressed by this case.