I.

Introduction

John Marshall (jurist) (1755-1835), American jurist and statesman, who as the fourth chief justice of the United States was principally responsible for developing the power of the United States Supreme Court and formulating constitutional law in the nation.

Marshall was born in Germantown, Virginia, on September 24, 1755, the eldest of 15 children. His childhood was spent under pioneer conditions in Fauquier County, Virginia, and his parents provided his early education. Marshall served in the American Revolution, first as a lieutenant and then as a captain. He received his only formal education in 1779, when he briefly studied law at the College of William and Mary. Admitted to the bar in 1780, he began practice in the West. Two years later he moved to Richmond, Virginia, and was soon a leader among Virginia lawyers.