What is the significance of Marbury v. Madison?

The significance of Marbury v. Madison lies in its establishment of the principle of judicial review. This landmark case, decided in 1803, marked a pivotal moment in U.S. legal history as it provided the Supreme Court with the authority to review and potentially invalidate laws and actions that are deemed inconsistent with the Constitution. Judicial review serves as a critical check on the powers of the legislative and executive branches, ensuring that any governmental actions comply with constitutional mandates. By asserting this power, the Supreme Court positioned itself as an equal branch of government, capable of interpreting the law and safeguarding individual rights against potential legislative overreach or executive authority abuses.

This case reaffirmed the role of the judiciary as a protector of the Constitution, greatly influencing the balance of power among the branches of government. It is foundational to the functioning of the American legal system, as it allows the judiciary to act as a guardian against unconstitutional actions. The court's decision in Marbury v. Madison has since been cited in numerous cases and remains a cornerstone of American constitutional law.