Who was the first Chief Justice of the United States?

The first Chief Justice of the United States was John Jay. He served from 1789 to 1795 and played a crucial role in establishing the Supreme Court's authority and foundational practices. John Jay was influential in shaping the early judiciary and contributed to the Federalist Papers, which argued for the ratification of the Constitution, highlighting his commitment to the new government structure. His tenure set important precedents for the court and helped define its judicial responsibilities. His leadership during the formative years of the U.S. legal system established a legacy that influenced future Chief Justices.