Adams served on the Continental Congress in 1774 and he also helped draft the Declaration of Independence. Before that, he defended the British soldiers in the Boston Massacre trial in 1770. Adams served as vice president and Second president of the United States, and he was the principal author of the oldest constitution written ever.

This is a scene from a film depicting Adams' role in defending the British soldiers in the Boston Massacre trial.

A couple of Thomas Jefferson's most notable achievements include his part in writing the Declaration of Independence, and being the third president of the United States. He was also the governor of Virginia from 1779-1781, promoted equality of the people when in office as the president, and he was the statesman responsible for the Louisiana Purchase.

John Marshall became the fourth chief of justice of the Supreme Court in 1804. He is closely tied to the Supreme Court's involvement in the federal government. Pertaining to Marshall's time serving in the war, General George Washington was a huge influence on him. He eventually became an officer with the Continental Army's third Regiment of Virginia. Marshall also studied law in his earlier years.

John Marshall led the Supreme Court as chief justice in the case of Marbury vs. Madison.

Marshall was a strong advocate for federalism in his days.