mar 1, 1805 - Samuel Chase Impeachment Case

Description:

This little known case has a great significance for the nation going forward. Supreme Court Justice Chase was accused (inspired by Jefferson) of making statements "hurtful to the United States." The real constitutional question was guilt of treason, bribery or other high crimes. There was not much debate over whether Chase was a partisan loudmouth. Ultimately, the Senate voted to acquit Chase and established the independence of the Judiciary, never again would a Supreme Court Justice be tried for partisanship.