Celebrate Constitution Day with a Conversation with John Marshall

The United States has debated certain legal questions for 200 years: how powerful should the courts be?  Should the Federal government be more powerful than state governments? As Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1802-1835, John Marshall shaped these issues and reshaped the court, creating the model that exists today.

The Franklin Pierce Law Center community has a unique opportunity to hear Chief Justice John Marshall's views on the role of the courts and government, and the future of this country as we celebrate Constitution Day, Thursday, September 17. Professor Emeritus and noted civil rights lawyer, Richard A. Hesse, will portray John Marshall as he was in the year 1835. After the presentation, audience members will have the chance to question Chief Justice Marshall on his views and decisions.

During his tenure on the U.S. Supreme Court, Marshall fought to establish a strong national government and an independent federal judiciary.  His decision in Marbury vs. Madison in 1803 declared that the Supreme Court could invalidate an act of Congress if the act conflicted with the Constitution.  Under Marshall’s guidance, the Supreme Court also ruled that the federal judiciary could reverse state court decisions. These decisions are still reflected in rulings by today’s Supreme Court.  Marshall was also personally involved in fascinating historical events such as the first and only impeachment of a Supreme Court justice, Aaron Burr’s trial for treason, and personal confrontations with Presidents Jefferson and Jackson.

"A Conversation with John Marshall" will occur in the Rich Room from 12:15-1:15.