Chief Justice Rehnquist traces the evolution of the court from the early days of our democracy to the present. He explains such text cases as Marbury v. Madison, in which the court established its authority to declare an act of Congress unconstitutional, and the Dred Scott decision, which held that Congress had no power to prohibit slavery in the territories. Rehnquist shows us how, as our nation grew and our politics changed, the court moved in tandem with the executive and legislative branches to become the diverse and complex body it is today. He explains how the court functions, and he takes us into the conference room and the justices' chambers. He describes how the 150 cases heard by the court each year are chosen from among the 4,000 petitions received, and he clarifies how decisions are reached and how opinions are assigned and circulated.

A unique and valuable book -- accessible and authoritative -- that greatly enhances our understanding of the operation and history of the highest court in the nation.