What significant change was made to the federal court system by the Reorganization Act of 1801?

The Reorganization Act of 1801, also known as the Judiciary Act of 1801, significantly restructured the federal court system by expanding federal jurisdiction and eliminating the required circuit duties of Supreme Court justices. This act was part of a broader effort by the outgoing Federalist administration to ensure their influence in the federal judiciary by increasing the number of federal judges and courts.

By enhancing federal jurisdiction, the act allowed for greater federal oversight and control over court cases that fell under federal law, which was particularly important as the nation expanded. Additionally, it altered the responsibilities of the justices of the Supreme Court, who prior to this act were required to ride circuit, meaning they had to travel to different jurisdictions to hear cases. By eliminating these circuit duties, the justices were able to focus more on their primary responsibilities in the Supreme Court.

This change was controversial and faced significant opposition, especially from the incoming Jeffersonian Republicans, and it was eventually repealed in 1802. However, the act's immediate impact on the federal judiciary was profound, enhancing its structure and jurisdiction.