Ruth Bader Ginsburg becomes first Jewish female Supreme Court Justice.
| Political | Legal |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published:
5 min read
When Ruth Bader Ginsburg took the oath to become an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, it marked a notable chapter in the country's judicial history. Nominated by then-President Bill Clinton, her appointment made Ginsburg the first Jewish female justice on the Supreme Court. This milestone was highly significant given the underrepresentation of both women and religious minorities in the highest court of the land.
Ginsburg's legal career prior to her Supreme Court appointment was distinguished by her relentless advocacy for gender equality and civil rights. As a co-founder of the Women's Rights Project at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), she argued several landmark cases before the Supreme Court, pioneering a strategy that revolutionized legal standards for gender discrimination.
Her confirmation to the Supreme Court was overwhelmingly approved by the Senate, reflecting broad bipartisan support—a notable feat in increasingly polarized times. During her tenure on the bench, Ginsburg continued to advocate for equality and justice through her opinions, both majority and dissenting.
The socioeconomic landscape of the United States saw few women and even fewer Jewish justices in the Supreme Court. Her appointment not only broke barriers but also influenced a more inclusive perception of leadership roles in American judiciary.
Statistically, Ginsburg became only the second woman appointed to the Supreme Court, following Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. Her presence on the bench contributed to a gradual shift towards a judiciary that better represents the diversity of the nation it serves.
This moment also intersected with broader societal changes. Gender roles were being increasingly scrutinized, and Ginsburg's confirmation was emblematic of the progress in various sectors. It further inspired a generation of women and minorities to pursue careers in law and public service, thereby contributing to the ongoing evolution of the American judiciary system.
The swearing-in ceremony was a formal yet pivotal event, watched closely by those invested in the ideals of equality and justice. The impact of Ginsburg’s appointment continued to resonate, both within and outside the courtroom, long after that moment.
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Primary Reference: Ruth Bader Ginsburg | Oyez

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