Born
March 15, 1933
Brooklyn, United States
Died
September 18, 2020
Washington, D.C., United States
Known for
American lawyer and jurist
Ruth Bader Ginsburg (1933–2020) was United States best known for American lawyer and jurist.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg (March 15, 1933 – September 18, 2020) was an American lawyer and jurist from Brooklyn, United States. She served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, becoming the first Jewish woman and second woman on the Court. Ginsburg shaped American law through her majority opinions and passionate dissents.
A life in moments
The moments that shaped a life
Chapter
Life chapters
Chapter 1 · 1933· Chapter 1 of 6
Early Life and Origins
Born Joan Ruth Bader on March 15, 1933, in Brooklyn, United States, Ruth Bader Ginsburg's early life laid the foundation for her later legal career. While specific details about her upbringing are not provided in this summary, her origins in Brooklyn undoubtedly shaped her perspective. She grew up to become a prominent figure in the American legal system.
Chapter 2 · 1993· Chapter 2 of 6
Career Beginnings
Ruth Bader Ginsburg began her distinguished legal career as an American lawyer. In 1993, she was nominated by President Bill Clinton to serve as an Associate Justice on the Supreme Court of the United States. Her appointment was to replace the retiring Justice Byron White, and at the time, she was widely considered a moderate consensus-builder within legal circles.
Chapter 3 · 1993· Chapter 3 of 6
Major Achievements and Career Highlights
Ginsburg's tenure on the Supreme Court, which lasted from 1993 until her death in 2020, was marked by several significant milestones. She broke barriers as the first Jewish woman to serve on the Court. Furthermore, she was the second woman overall to hold the position, following Justice Sandra Day O'Connor.
Chapter 4 · 1996· Chapter 4 of 6
Notable Works or Contributions
During her time as an Associate Justice, Ruth Bader Ginsburg authored numerous important majority opinions that have had a lasting impact on American law. These include seminal cases such as United States v. Virginia (1996), Olmstead v. L.C. (1999), and Friends of the Earth, Inc. v. Laidlaw Environmental Services, Inc. (2000). She also penned the majority opinion for City of Sherrill v. Oneida Indian Nation of New York (2005), further demonstrating her influence. Later in her career, Ginsburg became widely recognized for her passionate dissents, which often articulated liberal views of the law and served as powerful statements on constitutional interpretation.
Chapter 5 · 2020· Chapter 5 of 6
Later Years
Ruth Bader Ginsburg served on the Supreme Court with unwavering dedication until her death on September 18, 2020. Her final years saw her continue to engage vigorously with complex legal issues and cases. She passed away in Washington, D.C., United States, after a career of profound service.
Chapter 6· Chapter 6 of 6
Legacy and Impact
The legacy of Ruth Bader Ginsburg is one of enduring influence and a commitment to justice. Her historic appointment as the first Jewish woman and second woman to the Supreme Court paved the way for future generations. Through her carefully crafted majority opinions and her eloquent, often passionate, dissents, she significantly shaped the interpretation of American law and constitutional principles.
FAQ
Frequently asked
When did Ruth Bader Ginsburg die?
Ruth Bader Ginsburg died on September 18, 2020 in Washington, D.C., United States, at the age of 87.
Where was Ruth Bader Ginsburg born?
Ruth Bader Ginsburg was born in Brooklyn, United States on March 15, 1933.
What is Ruth Bader Ginsburg best known for?
Ruth Bader Ginsburg is best known for American lawyer and jurist.
How old was Ruth Bader Ginsburg when they died?
Ruth Bader Ginsburg was 87 years old at the time of death.
What nationality was Ruth Bader Ginsburg?
Ruth Bader Ginsburg was from United States.
Timeline
Life at a glance
Photo gallery
A life in pictures
Click any polaroid to expand · 23 photos
QR Code
Share This Biography
Print & Share
Scan to visit this biography page. Print for events, exhibitions, or educational materials.






