Samuel Chase (1741 - 1811) was born on April 17, 1741 in Princess Anne, Maryland. He was an American lawyer, politician, and jurist, best known for his role as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court. A strong advocate for American independence, Chase was a signer of the Declaration of Independence and played a significant role in the Continental Congress. Before his appointment to the Supreme Court, he served as a Maryland delegate to the Continental Congress and as the state’s treasurer.

In 1796, President George Washington appointed him to the Supreme Court, where he became known for his outspoken views and his support for a strong federal government. Chase was involved in several significant cases, often reflecting his Federalist views. His tenure on the Court was marked by his controversial impeachment proceedings in 1804. He was impeached by the House of Representatives on charges of political bias and misconduct, but he was acquitted by the Senate, setting an important precedent that impeachment should not be used for political disagreements. Chase continued to serve on the Supreme Court until his death in 1811.