State Historical Society of Iowa

Supreme Court Building in Washington, D.C., ca. 1980

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Supreme Court Building in Washington, D.C., ca. 1980
Courtesy of Library of Congress, Highsmith, Carol M., "Supreme Court Building, Washington, D.C.," ca. 1980

Description

The U.S. Supreme Court of the United States is the highest court in the federal judiciary of the United States. Established by the U.S. Constitution, the Supreme Court began to take shape with the passage of the Judiciary Act of 1789 and has enjoyed a rich history since its first assembly in 1790. The Supreme Court is deeply tied to its traditions. Of the federal government’s three branches, the Court bears the closest resemblance to its original form – a 225-year-old legacy.

Source-Dependent Questions

  • Refer back to the Comparing Three Branches of Government document. What branch of government does the Supreme Court represent?
  • Look closely at the photo and describe the building. Why would the Supreme Court building be built across the street from the US Capitol?
  • Established by the U.S. Constitution, the Supreme Court began to take shape with the passage of the Judiciary Act of 1789. Why would the Judiciary Act of 1789 be an important milestone for the country?

Citation Information 

Highsmith, Carol M., "Supreme Court Building, Washington, D.C.," ca. 1980. Courtesy of Library of Congress