The Historic Swearing-In of Thurgood Marshall: The First Black Supreme Court Justice

Name: The Historic Swearing-In of Thurgood Marshall: The First Black Supreme Court Justice
Start: 1908-10-02
Location: Unspecified

Thurgood Marshall: A Trailblazer for Justice

Who Was Thurgood Marshall?

Born in Baltimore, Maryland in 1908, Thurgood Marshall was a prominent civil rights lawyer, making history as the first African American appointed to the United States Supreme Court. He had a profound impact on the legal system, advocating for the rights of minorities and fighting against racial segregation.

Marshall's Journey to the Supreme Court

Before his appointment to the Supreme Court in 1967, Thurgood Marshall became renowned for winning the landmark case Brown v. Board of Education, which declared state laws establishing separate public schools for black and white students unconstitutional. This pivotal victory showcased his commitment to civil rights and equality before the law.

The Ceremony: Marshall Takes His Oath

The Day of the Swearing-In

On October 2, 1967, Thurgood Marshall was sworn in as a Supreme Court Justice, a momentous event that represented victory for the Civil Rights Movement. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, activists, and supporters, all celebrating a significant step toward racial equality in America.

Marshall's Impact on the Court

As a Supreme Court Justice, Thurgood Marshall was known for his strong stance on civil rights, his advocacy for affirmative action, and his commitment to protecting individual liberties. His presence on the court challenged the traditional norms and paved the way for future generations of minority justices.

Fun Fact

An Interesting Fact About Thurgood Marshall

Did you know that before becoming a Supreme Court Justice, Thurgood Marshall was the first director of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund? His tireless efforts laid the groundwork for monumental changes in civil rights law.