Which decision is widely cited as establishing the principle of judicial review in the United States?

• A. XYZ Affair
• B. War of 1812
• C. Louisiana Purchase
• D. Marbury v Madison

Answer: (D)

Judicial review is the power of the courts to interpret the Constitution and strike down laws or government actions that don’t align with it. Marbury v Madison (1803) is the landmark case that established this power for the Supreme Court. In that decision, the Court held that although Marbury was entitled to his commission, the specific court authority to issue writs of mandamus—as granted by a section of the Judiciary Act—was unconstitutional because it extended the Court beyond what the Constitution allows. From this ruling, the principle took hold that the Constitution is the supreme law and that the judiciary can review and invalidate statutes or executive actions that violate it. That is why Marbury v Madison is widely cited as the origin of judicial review. The other events listed are important historical moments, but they aren’t about establishing this constitutional power.