Landmark supreme court cases

Definition

Pivotal decisions by the U.S. Supreme Court that have significantly shaped constitutional law, civil rights, and government power. These cases set precedents that guide future legal interpretations and often reflect major social and political changes in American society.

Examples

  • Marbury v. Madison (1803) establishing judicial review
  • Brown v. Board of Education (1954) ruling school segregation unconstitutional
  • Miranda v. Arizona (1966) requiring police to inform suspects of their rights

Related Terms

Judicial review Court system Due process Equal protection

Study This Concept

Practice landmark Supreme Court cases with free review games in these units:

U.S. Government Unit 5: The Judicial Branch