U.S Supreme Court

    Within the United States it is extremely important to know that the Supreme Court "is the highest federal court in the country and the head of the judicial branch of government". This means that the Supreme Court pretty much is the highest power in government, currently consisting of 9 justices, and has the ability to watch over both the Executive and Legislative branches. It is surprising to know the extent of power that the Supreme Court ultimate has, despite the idea of checks and balances.

    The real beginning of the Supreme Court was in 1789 when the Judiciary Act was put into place by George Washington, stating there would be six justices. The Supreme Court went on to have their first meeting February of 1790 and their first decision in August of 1791. This decision was made a day after hearing the arguments of West V. Barnes, in which there was a financial problem involving a farmer and a family that he owed money to.

The Supreme Court consists of about 6 justices that are nominated by the President of the United States and denied or approved by the US Senate. Although the Supreme Court began with 6 justices, a rule was put into place later on that the amount of justices can range from as low as 5 to as high as 10. The most important one of the justices would be the Chief Justice. Before reading this history article, I did not know the importance of the Chief Justice. This person is responsible for the agenda, the writing of opinions, sits on the board of Regents, and looks over trials of impeachment. 

    The Supreme Court has a much larger role than I previously thought. It has the most powerful jurisdiction over federal court cases and even state court cases that include some federal law. Despite the intense power I realize the Supreme Court holds it is vital to keep in mind that it is balanced by the Executive and Legislative branches.