Florida Civic Literacy Practice Exam

What legal principle was established by the Supreme Court decision Marbury v. Madison?

1. Judicial review

2. Separation of powers

3. Checks and balances

4. Individual rights

The correct answer is: Judicial review

The Supreme Court decision in Marbury v. Madison established the principle of judicial review, which is the power of the courts to examine and invalidate legislation and executive actions that are found to be unconstitutional. This landmark case, decided in 1803, was pivotal in defining the role of the judiciary within the framework of government. It affirmed that the Supreme Court has the authority to interpret the Constitution and ensure that no law or government action can contravene it. This principle plays a critical role in the system of checks and balances devised by the framers of the Constitution, helping to maintain a balance of power among the different branches of government by allowing the judiciary to overrule actions that violate the constitutional rights of individuals or exceed the powers granted to the government. While the concepts of separation of powers and checks and balances are indeed related and important for understanding American government, they do not specifically identify the established role of the court in reviewing legislation and executive decisions, which is the essence of judicial review. Individual rights are also a significant aspect of constitutional law, but they are not the focus of what Marbury v. Madison established; instead, the case underscored the judiciary's authority in protecting those rights through the mechanism of judicial review.