slative courts, make up the federal court system" (Davis). In the beginning, the Supreme Court justices had to "ride the circuit," which meant they had to travel to the Circuit Courts every year, which meant miles and miles of travel. This continued until 1891 (Davis). Early justices believed this helped bring the judges closer to the people and their problems.
             The oath that every federal judge takes is still the same today. The judges say,
             "'I do solemnly swear that I will administer justice without respect to persons, and do equal right to the poor and to the rich; and that I will faithfully and impartially discharge all the duties incumbent upon me ... according to the best of my abilities and understanding agreeably to the constitution and laws of the United States'" (Semonche 40).
             This is meant to show their fairness and balance, and that they are not biased in their decisions. Of course, this is not always the case. However, George Washington did attempt to make sure the Court justices were balanced in their state's rights by appointing justices from their representative areas of the country, and making sure all areas were represented. This practice does not continue for the most part today, because the judges reside in Washington D.C., and represent their legal interests rather than their geographical regions.
             From 1789 to 1864, there were five Chief Justices who led the Court. The first was John Jay, who served from 1789 to 1795. John Rutledge led the Court during 1795, and Oliver Ellsworth led it from 1796-1800. These three men really are not remembered for their great contributions to the court, but the next two, John Marshall who led from 1801-1835, and Roger Taney who led from 1835 until 1864 both made contributions that still stand today. Marshall was especially important because he redefined the Court and created its ability to rule on Congressional or state decisions, and overturn them if necessary...