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Sandra Day O'Connor

Person

Sandra Day O'Connor was a trailblazing American jurist who made a lasting impact on the United States Supreme Court. Born on March 26, 1930, in El Paso, Texas, O'Connor grew up in a ranching family and developed a strong sense of independence and determination. She earned her bachelor's degree from Stanford University and later graduated from Stanford Law School, where she was one of only nine women in her class. O'Connor's remarkable career spanned over four decades, during which she served as a judge on the Arizona Court of Appeals, the first woman to hold such a position. In 1981, President Ronald Reagan appointed her to the Supreme Court, where she became the first woman to serve as a justice. Throughout her tenure, O'Connor was known for her moderate and pragmatic approach, often serving as a swing vote in high-profile cases. Her legacy extends far beyond her time on the bench, as she paved the way for future generations of women in law and politics.