In the Royal Exchange Building on New York City’s Broad Street, the Supreme Court of the United States meets for the first time, with Chief Justice John Jay of New York presiding.
By: HISTORY.com Editors
1790
First session of the U.S. Supreme Court
Published: February 09, 2010
Last Updated: February 18, 2025
Supreme Court
Learn all about how a Supreme Court nominee gets confirmed to the highest authority in the U.S.
The U.S. Supreme Court was established by Article Three of the U.S. Constitution, which took effect in March 1789. The Constitution granted the Supreme Court ultimate jurisdiction over all laws, especially those in which constitutionality was at issue. The court was also designated to rule on cases concerning treaties of the United States, foreign diplomats, admiralty practice, and maritime jurisdiction.
In September 1789, the Judiciary Act was passed, implementing Article Three by providing for six justices who would serve on the court for life. The same day, President George Washington appointed John Jay to preside as chief justice, and John Rutledge of South Carolina, William Cushing of Massachusetts, John Blair of Virginia, Robert Harrison of Maryland, and James Wilson of Pennsylvania to serve as associate justices. Two days later, all six appointments were confirmed by the U.S. Senate.
The Supreme Court later grew into arguably the most powerful judicial body in the world in terms of its central place in the U.S. political order. In times of constitutional crisis, for better or worse, it always played a definitive role in resolving the great issues of the time.
Timeline
Also on This Day in History
Discover more of the major events, famous births, notable deaths and everything else history-making that happened on February 1st
Related Articles
U.S. Government and Politics
How John Paul Stevens’ Views Evolved Over 34 Years on the Supreme Court
Appointed by a Republican president, the Associate Justice’s views on the death penalty and affirmative action shifted dramatically over time.
U.S. Government and Politics
From Sinatra to Streisand: 100 Years of Celebrity Political Endorsements
For more than a century, movie stars, famous athletes and musicians have all lent their star power to support presidential campaigns.
U.S. Government and Politics
The Most Controversial Census Changes in American History
Between 1850 and 1930, the census created new categories that reinforced a white supremacist obsession with ‘racial purity.’
U.S. Government and Politics
The ‘White Slavery’ Law That Brought Down Jack Johnson is Still in Effect
The Mann Act was designed to prevent human trafficking—but used to punish interracial relationships.
About the author
HISTORY.com Editors
HISTORY.com works with a wide range of writers and editors to create accurate and informative content. All articles are regularly reviewed and updated by the HISTORY.com team. Articles with the “HISTORY.com Editors” byline have been written or edited by the HISTORY.com editors, including Amanda Onion, Missy Sullivan, Matt Mullen, Christian Zapata and Cristiana Lombardo.
Fact Check
We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, click here to contact us! HISTORY reviews and updates its content regularly to ensure it is complete and accurate.
Citation Information
- Article title
- First session of the U.S. Supreme Court
- Author
- HISTORY.com Editors
- Website Name
- History
- Date Accessed
- April 16, 2025
- Publisher
- A&E Television Networks
- Last Updated
- February 18, 2025
- Original Published Date
- February 09, 2010
History Every Day
Sign Up for "This Day in History"
Uncover fascinating moments from the past every day! Learn something new with key events in history, from the American Revolution to pop culture, crime and more.
By submitting your information, you agree to receive emails from HISTORY and A+E Global Media. You can opt out at any time. You must be 16 years or older and a resident of the United States.
More details: Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Contact Us
