Sandra Day O'Connor

About the Author

Sandra Day O'Connor, the first woman to serve on the United States Supreme Court, broke barriers in 1981 when appointed by President Ronald Reagan, serving until her retirement in 2006. Renowned for her pragmatic jurisprudence and centrist approach, she authored pivotal opinions on issues ranging from abortion rights in Planned Parenthood v. Casey to federalism in New York v. United States, shaping American law with a commitment to judicial restraint and institutional integrity. Beyond the bench, O'Connor has been a tireless advocate for civic education through initiatives like iCivics, emphasizing the importance of an informed electorate. In her writing, she offers profound insights into the judiciary's role, as seen in her memoir The Majesty of the Law: Reflections of a Supreme Court Justice, where she reflects on the Court's history and her own trailblazing journey. A recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, O'Connor continues to inspire with her dedication to public service and the rule of law.