Question

Why was the national government unable to settle legal disputes between the states under the Articles of Confederation? (33d) A. The United States did not have a chief executive. B. The United States did not have a national court system. C. The United States did not have a national legislature. D. The United States did not have a strong military.

Answer 1

The Supreme Court of the United States is the highest court in the land and the only part of the federal judiciary specifically required by the Constitution.

The Constitution does not stipulate the number of Supreme Court Justices; the number is set instead by Congress. There have been as few as six, but since 1869 there have been nine Justices, including one Chief Justice. All Justices are nominated by the President, confirmed by the Senate, and hold their offices under life tenure. Since Justices do not have to run or campaign for re-election, they are thought to be insulated from political pressure when deciding cases. Justices may remain in office until they resign, pass away, or are impeached and convicted by Congress