Who was the Chief Justice who presided over Marbury v Madison, McCulloch v Maryland, and Gibbons v Ogden?

• A. Earl Warren
• B. Roger B. Taney
• C. John Marshall
• D. John Jay

Answer: (C)

John Marshall is the correct choice. He was Chief Justice from 1801 to 1835 and wrote the opinions in these foundational cases, shaping how the Supreme Court interprets the Constitution. In Marbury v Madison, the decision established judicial review—the court’s power to declare laws unconstitutional. In McCulloch v Maryland, Marshall affirmed federal supremacy over state actions and endorsed implied powers of Congress under the Necessary and Proper Clause. In Gibbons v Ogden, he reinforced the federal government’s authority to regulate interstate commerce, limiting state interference with national economic activity. These rulings together solidified the judiciary’s role in balancing federal and state powers and interpreting constitutional limits. The other figures led or influenced different eras: Earl Warren in the mid-20th century focusing on civil rights and due process; Roger B. Taney around the pre-Civil War era and known for the Dred Scott decision; John Jay was the first Chief Justice but did not preside these particular cases.