Who was the first Chief Justice of the United States?

John Marshall was indeed the first Chief Justice of the United States, serving from 1801 to 1835. His tenure significantly shaped the role of the Supreme Court and its relationship with the other branches of government. Marshall's landmark decisions established important precedents that defined the power of the federal government and the authority of the Supreme Court, including the principle of judicial review established in Marbury v. Madison. This principle allows the Supreme Court to invalidate laws that it finds unconstitutional, thereby affirming the judiciary's role as a check on the legislative and executive branches.

The other individuals mentioned played pivotal roles in the founding of the United States but did not hold the position of Chief Justice. Alexander Hamilton was the first Secretary of the Treasury and a key architect of the nation's financial system. James Madison, known as the "Father of the Constitution," served as the fourth President and was instrumental in drafting the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. George Washington was the first President of the United States, leading the nation in its early years, but he did not hold any judicial office. Each of these figures contributed significantly to the establishment and governance of the United States, but John Marshall’s role as Chief Justice was specifically foundational to the judiciary.