History Now Essay The Marshall and Taney Courts: Continuities and Changes R. B. Bernstein Economics, Government and Civics 9, 10, 11, 12, 13+ Though the first holders of the job thought it more a burden than a position of honor or power, the office of chief justice of the United States has a pivotal role in the American constitutional system, thanks mainly to John Marshall ... Appears in: 15 | The Supreme Court Spring 2008