Meaning: The quote "We are under a Constitution, but the Constitution is what the judges say it is, and the judiciary is the safeguard of our property and our liberty and our property under the Constitution" by Charles Hughes, a prominent judge and later Chief Justice of the United States, encapsulates the pivotal role of the judiciary in interpreting and upholding the Constitution. This statement underscores the significance of the judiciary in ensuring the protection of individual rights and property within the framework of the Constitution.

Charles Evans Hughes, the author of the quote, was a distinguished figure in American legal and political history. He served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1910 to 1916 and later as the Chief Justice from 1930 to 1941. Throughout his tenure on the Supreme Court, Hughes was known for his influential opinions and commitment to upholding the rule of law.

The quote itself reflects Hughes's understanding of the dynamic nature of constitutional interpretation. It acknowledges that while the Constitution serves as the foundational legal document governing the United States, its meaning and application are ultimately determined by the judiciary. This concept, often referred to as judicial review, grants the courts the authority to interpret the Constitution and assess the constitutionality of laws and government actions.

Hughes's assertion that "the Constitution is what the judges say it is" is rooted in the principle of judicial review established by the landmark case of Marbury v. Madison in 1803. In this case, Chief Justice John Marshall articulated the power of the judiciary to review and invalidate laws that are found to be in conflict with the Constitution. This pivotal decision solidified the role of the judiciary as the ultimate arbiter of constitutional interpretation.

Moreover, Hughes's statement emphasizes the judiciary's crucial role in safeguarding individual rights, including property and liberty, within the constitutional framework. The courts serve as a check on the potential overreach of the legislative and executive branches, ensuring that the rights enshrined in the Constitution are protected and upheld. Through their interpretation of constitutional principles, judges play a critical role in preserving the balance of power and the rule of law in a democratic society.

The concept of judicial independence is also implicit in Hughes's assertion. By acknowledging the judiciary as the safeguard of property and liberty under the Constitution, he underscores the importance of an impartial and autonomous judiciary. Judicial independence is essential for ensuring that judges can make decisions based on the law and the Constitution, free from external influence or political pressure.

In conclusion, Charles Hughes's quote encapsulates the pivotal role of the judiciary in interpreting and safeguarding the Constitution, as well as protecting individual rights and property. It reflects the enduring principle of judicial review and underscores the significance of an independent judiciary in upholding the rule of law. Hughes's perspective continues to resonate in discussions about the vital role of the judiciary in preserving constitutional principles and ensuring the protection of individual liberties.