A pioneering Supreme Court Justice and women's rights advocate who championed gender equality and became a cultural icon.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg, affectionately known as the Notorious R.B.G., was a trailblazing American lawyer and jurist who served as an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1993 until her death in 2020. She is renowned for her relentless pursuit of gender equality and women's rights, significantly shaping the legal landscape through her landmark judgments and impassioned dissents.
Ginsburg was born on March 15, 1933, in Brooklyn, New York. She grew up in a modest Jewish family, facing personal struggles from an early age, including the loss of her older sister to meningitis and her mother's death before graduating from high school. Despite these challenges, Ginsburg persevered, earning her bachelor's degree at Cornell University and later attending Harvard Law School, where she was one of the few women in her class.
After graduating from Columbia Law School, Ginsburg began her career as a professor at Rutgers Law School and Columbia Law School, teaching civil procedure as one of the few women in her field. She gained recognition for her work with the Columbia Law School Project on International Procedure, where she co-authored a book with Swedish jurist Anders Bruzelius, profoundly influencing her thinking on gender equality.
Ginsburg spent much of her legal career as an advocate for gender equality and women's rights, winning many arguments before the Supreme Court. Her landmark cases include United States v. Virginia (1996), Olmstead v. L.C. (1999), Friends of the Earth, Inc. v. Laidlaw Environmental Services, Inc. (2000), and City of Sherrill v. Oneida Indian Nation of New York (2005).
Later in her tenure, Ginsburg received attention for her passionate dissents, reflecting liberal views of the law. Her dissents became iconic, earning her the moniker "Notorious R.B.G." Some notable dissents include:
Ginsburg's legacy extends far beyond the courtroom. She has inspired countless women and marginalized communities, empowering them to stand up for their rights and challenge the status quo. Her career has paved the way for future generations of women in law, breaking down barriers and challenging gender stereotypes.
Ginsburg's remarkable career has been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including:
Ginsburg married Martin D. Ginsburg in 1954, and they had one child, Jane Carol Ginsburg. The couple's partnership was a remarkable example of mutual support and respect, with Martin often taking on domestic duties to enable Ruth's career.
Ginsburg's iconic status has transcended the legal world, inspiring numerous pop culture references, including:
Ruth Bader Ginsburg's remarkable life and career have cemented her place in American history. As a trailblazing lawyer, judge, and advocate, she has left an indelible mark on the fight for gender equality and women's rights. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, serving as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the power of perseverance and determination.
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Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, serving since 2010 and known for her liberal stance and influential opinions on key cases. She is the fourth woman to serve on the Court.
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An Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, known for his conservative views and controversial nomination process. He plays a crucial role in shaping the country's laws and policies.
