John Jay Research Paper

Best known for serving as the 1st Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and helping to write the Federalist Papers, John Jay was one of the most influential Founding Fathers. Born in New York City on December 12, 1745 to a wealthy family Jay was easily able to attend King’s College (Columbia University) and become a successful lawyer. Though he did not originally support the revolution, Jay represented New York during both Continental Congresses. Later, he helped negotiate the 1783 Treaty of Paris which ended the Revolutionary War and accepted George Washington’s offer to become Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Due to his moderate stance, Jay was chosen as the delegate of New York during the 1st and 2nd Continental Congresses. His stance on trying to reconcile the colonies with Britain changed dramatically and he became an ardent separatist during the course of the Revolution. During the 1st Continental Congress Jay wrote “Address to the People of Great Britain” in which he acknowledged that Britain was oppressing the colonies and draining their money while also encouraging peace between the colonies …show more content…
Originally, Washington offered him the post of Secretary of State but he declined. Jay only heard four cases during his service: West v. Barnes, Hayburn’s Case, Chisholm v. Georgia, and Georgia v. Brailsford. Chisholm v. Georgia introduced the idea of judicial review (later confirmed by Marbury v. Madison) and declared that people, not states held sovereign power and State conduct was subject to judicial review. The case also led to the creation of the 11th Amendment (the 1st amendment after the Bill of Rights).“The judicial power of the United States shall not be construed to extend to any suit in law or equity, commenced or prosecuted against one of the United States by citizens of another state, or by citizens or subjects of any foreign