Blog Post 2

History of the United States Supreme Court

    

    My prior knowledge about the United States Supreme Court is limited; but after researching, I feel equipped to have a conversation about its history and purpose.  This video and other resources expanded my knowledge base a great deal. I gained a lot of new structured information about the responsibilities of the Supreme Court and the different roles to make sure the justice system is effective.  The US Supreme Court is the highest court in the federal judiciary and was led by Caucasian men for years until the historic moment when Thurgood Marshall was confirmed as the first Black person to serve on the Supreme Court in August of 1967.

    One the main points of interest for me was learning about the multiple roles of the Chief Justice. There have only been 17 Chief Justices since 1789 compared to One of those duties includes serving  being on the Board of Regents, and to preside over trials if a President is threatened to be impeached. The longest serving Chief Justice is Chief Justice William Douglas, who served for 36 years.  Usually, their terms last about 13 - 15 years.  This person is also responsible for administering the Oath of Office to the President of the United States.The Chief Justice holds a great deal of power in this position including addressing budgeting concerns and leading the federal judicial branch.

    I believe one of the important points of interest I learned about the US Supreme Court is the amount of responsibility that those who serve have taken on for years. They perform a great deal of their work behind closed doors and meet weekly to make sure the laws are upheld. Sometimes, being a public servant is a job that is overlooked and can be exhausting.  Those who serve are passionate about their work and the idea of serving all citizens. 

    The most surprising thing I learned from this research is that there has been little change since its inception. Once this body was established in 1798, there has been little change regarding how they operate. To think that nothing has really changed in over 100 years ago is astonishing to me. I also think it is interesting that this judicial branch has been in existence for so long and has benefited the American government, in general.  Due to all of the decisions that must be made related to laws and different opinions and values, one would think there would be more division. 

    After completing research, I can appreciate what the United State Supreme Court does and its significance in our lives. There is a level of respect that is given to those who serve and have served on this judicial body because the decisions they render allow us to use our constitutional rights.  The US Supreme Court maintains order and has systems in place so American citizens rights are protected.  This governing body is expected to uphold the law above EVERYTHING.