Why was John Marshall's desire to strengthen the federal government so important during the early years of the nation?

Answer 1

In order to fulfill the Constitutional goals for all U.S. citizens, it is necessary to have a strong federal government. A loose coalition of independent states can't guarantee these rights to all U.S. citizens.

Answer 2

Thanks. I have just one more question.
Why do you think John Marshall is described as the "Great Chief Justice."
Would this sound like a good answer: He's served longer than any other chief justice in history.

Answer 3

No. That's a pretty weak reason for calling him a Great Chief Justice.

Read the first couple of paragraphs in this article to see why he earned that title.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Marshall