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The Supreme Court of the United States is composed of nine justices, which includes one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. This structure has been in place since the Judiciary Act of 1869, establishing the number of justices at nine. The roles of these justices are to interpret the Constitution, adjudicate legal disputes, and ensure the rule of law is upheld in the country. This number can affect the court's decisions, as having an odd number of justices helps avoid tie votes on cases. Furthermore, the appointment of justices is a significant aspect of the President's legacy and can shape legal interpretations for decades, depending on the justices' judicial philosophies.