Final answer:
The establishment of the principle of judicial review played a critical role in defining the judiciary's power to examine the constitutionality of legislation and governmental actions. It enforced the balance of power among the three branches of the U.S. government and affirmed the judiciary's independence and influence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The principle of judicial review was of utmost importance in establishing the role of the judiciary within the system of checks and balances in the U.S. government. Judicial review, established in 1803 in the Supreme Court case Marbury v. Madison, defined the judiciary's ability to examine the constitutionality of laws or actions taken by the legislative and executive branches of government, and declare them null and void if found unconstitutional.
Chief Justice John Marshall played a key role in the establishment of this principle. It has been described as the "very essence of judicial duty" and remains one of the most vital facets of judicial power. Through judicial review, the courts ensure that the Constitution is upheld as the supreme law of the land, checking the actions of the government at all levels.
Chief Justice Marshall's implementation of judicial review not only strengthened the court by asserting its right to review and possibly nullify the actions of Congress and the president, but it also affirmed the court's independence and influence. With the power of judicial review, the judiciary became a formidable check on the other branches of government and the states, ensuring the balance of power and protecting the rights of individuals.
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