John Marshall: The development years, 1755-1800

Abstract

This thesis is an interpretive biography of John Marshall focusing on the years prior to his appointment as Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court.

From his youth Marshall seemed destined to play a role in the formation of the new American republic. Marshal's service to the new republic began with his military service in the Revolutionary War. After America won independence, Marshall began practicing law and was subsequently elected to the Virginia House of Delegates. Marshall was given ample opportunity to further his conviction of the necessity of a strong central government during the Virginia Federal Constitutional Convention of 1788. Marshall's reputation grew in prominence until he was appointed special envoy to France in 1797. Upon his return from France, Marshall was welcomed as a hero because of his staunch refusal to pay a bribe demanded by the French ministers. Marshall was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1799, and before his term expired, President John Adams appointed him Secretary of State. After serving only nine months, Marshall was appointed Chief Justice of the United States.

During these formative years Marshall played a decisive role in the creation of the new American government. At this time, he developed opinions and attitudes which later determined many of the decisions he rendered as Chief Justice. Thus, Marshall's early years were critical in molding the future of a man who was to become one of the most outstanding jurists in American history.