With special thanks to Constituting America and Heritage College, we will be taking part in their project:The U.S. Constitution: A Reader. It is a 90 day challenge to learn and dive deeper into understanding the Constitution.
In case you missed it, catch up with day 9 HERE.
Yesterday we read the Constitution. Today, we read what Chief Justice John Marshall said on Marbury v. Madison.
Today’s reading can be found HERE
As important as it is to know what inspired those that wrote the Constitution, it is equally important to know what those things contained within it mean. That is why this opinion published by Chief Justice Marshall is so vital. It helps define judicial review and its power and limitations. (And those limitations are equated from branch to branch.)
Nothing helps define that better than when he said:
“The powers of the legislature are defined and limited; and that those limits may not be mistaken, or forgotten, the constitution is written. To what purpose are powers limited, and to what purpose is that limitation committed to writing, if these limits may, at any time, be passed by those intended to be restrained? The distinction between a government with limited and unlimited powers is abolished, if those limits do not confine the persons on whom they are imposed, and if acts prohibited and acts allowed, are of equal obligation.”
How’s that for defining the government and its limits to power? The Constitution a great mediator when those who seek power try to reach beyond what it limits them to.
The Constitution is a pillar upon what defines our government; along with its checks and balances.
Are you enjoying this challenge along with us? If so, please share with your friends and family via Facebook, Twitter, Email or any other way you feel inspired to. Also, feel free to leave a comment or two.