What year was the size of the Supreme Court set at nine justices?

The size of the Supreme Court was set at nine justices in 1869, which has remained unchanged ever since. This decision was made by Congress, which has the authority to determine the composition of the Supreme Court. The Judiciary Act of 1869 established this number after the Civil War, as part of an effort to stabilize the judicial system during Reconstruction.

At that time, having nine justices created a balance that was intended to enhance the Court’s ability to function effectively as it dealt with the complex issues of the post-war period, ensuring both a diverse representation of opinions and an efficient decision-making process. This historical context is significant because it reflects how legislative action can shape the structure of the judicial system in response to national needs.