What is a 'Writ of Mandamus'?
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Correct answer: A court order compelling a government official to perform a ministerial duty
A writ of mandamus is a legal order used to force a public official to carry out an action they are legally required to do. Marbury sought this writ to force Secretary of State James Madison to deliver his judicial commission.
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More Marbury v. Madison questions
- Which political party was most threatened by the establishment of judicial review in 1803?
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