John Marshall Quotes

The Constitution is colorblind, and neither knows nor tolerates classes among citizens.

~ John Marshall

The law does not expect a man to be prepared to defend every act of his life which may be suddenly and without notice alleged against him.

~ John Marshall

An unlimited power to tax involves, necessarily, a power to destroy; because there is a limit beyond which no institution and no property can bear taxation.

~ John Marshall

To listen well is as powerful a means of communication and influence as to talk well.

~ John Marshall

The French Revolution will be found to have had great influence on the strength of parties, and on the subsequent political transactions of the United States.

~ John Marshall

What is it that makes us trust our judges? Their independence in office and manner of appointment.

~ John Marshall

The power to tax is the power to destroy.

~ John Marshall

The very essence of civil liberty certainly consists in the right of every individual to claim the protection of the laws, whenever he receives an injury. One of the first duties of government is to afford that protection.

~ John Marshall

I was born on the 24th of September 1755 in the county of Fauquier, at that time one of the frontier counties of Virginia. My father possessed scarcely any fortune and had received a very limited education - but was a man to whom nature had been bountiful, and who had assiduously improved her gifts.

~ John Marshall

My father superintended the English part of my education, and to his care I am indebted for anything valuable which I may have acquired in my youth. He was my only intelligent companion, and was both a watchful parent and an affectionate friend.

~ John Marshall