The basic design implemented by the Judicial Act of 1789 has endured because of a supreme appellate court to interpret the Constitution and laws, and a reliance upon State courts to handle the bulk of adjudication in the Nation. Maps illustrate the population, and the number of States, districts, district judges, and circuits and Supreme Court justices in the years 1789, 1802, 1807, 1837, 1842, 1855, 1863, 1866, 1891, 1929, 1948 and 1989. 1891 was a pivotal year in which the Federal courts achieved administrative autonomy from the executive branch. Since then the number of authorized judgeships has increased almost nine-fold, from 84 to 739. 81 notes, 2 figures.