Who served as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and was appointed in 1801?

John Marshall served as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court after being appointed in 1801, and he played a crucial role in shaping the American legal system. His tenure lasted until 1835, making him the longest-serving Chief Justice in U.S. history. Marshall is best known for establishing the principle of judicial review in the landmark case of Marbury v. Madison, which affirmed the judiciary's authority to strike down laws that violate the Constitution. His decisions helped to strengthen the federal government and the power of the Supreme Court, significantly impacting the development of U.S. law and governance.

The other figures mentioned were important in their own rights and historical contexts but did not hold the position of Chief Justice during that time. John Jay was the first Chief Justice, serving from 1789 to 1795, while Roger Taney is known for his role in the Dred Scott decision in the 1850s. William Howard Taft was the only person to serve as both President and Chief Justice but held that role much later, from 1921 to 1930.