How many justices are on the Supreme Court?

The Supreme Court of the United States is composed of nine justices. This number has been established since 1869 and includes one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. The composition of the Court is determined by Congress, and while there have been various proposals to change the number of justices over the years, the current configuration of nine remains the standard.

Understanding the composition of the Supreme Court is essential, as it plays a crucial role in the judicial system, interpreting laws and their constitutionality, and setting legal precedents that affect the entire nation. The number of justices significantly impacts the Court's decision-making process and overall function, thereby influencing the judiciary's role in American democracy.