Final answer:
The Supreme Court's power of judicial review was established by the Marbury vs. Madison decision in 1803, allowing it to declare acts of Congress and the President unconstitutional when they violate the U.S. Constitution.Option c is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Supreme Court established the power of judicial review with its decision in Marbury vs. Madison. This pivotal case in 1803 led to a landmark decision by Chief Justice John Marshall, which effectively asserted the Court's power to review and potentially nullify the actions of Congress and the President. The Constitution does not explicitly grant this power; however, through the Marbury vs. Madison decision, the Supreme Court established judicial review as a central mechanism of checks and balances within the American government system, allowing courts to overturn laws and actions if they are deemed unconstitutional. This power has been sparingly used over the years, with the Court striking down a relatively small number of national and state laws compared to the total number passed.
Furthermore, the doctrine of judicial review, as articulated in Marbury vs. Madison, fortified the judiciary's role in interpreting and safeguarding the Constitution. Chief Justice John Marshall's eloquent decision not only solidified the Court's authority but also set a precedent for constitutional interpretation. Judicial review, while not explicitly outlined in the Constitution, became a critical component of the system of checks and balances.
Over time, this power has shaped the legal landscape, influencing decisions that have profound implications for individual rights, governmental powers, and the evolving dynamics between the branches of government in the United States.