Sandra Day O'Connor, a pioneering justice on the U.S. Supreme Court, passed away on Friday in Phoenix, Arizona. Her death was attributed to complications associated with advanced dementia, likely Alzheimer’s disease, and a respiratory illness, as stated in the court's announcement.

1930-2023

Sandra O'Connor was a prominent figure in American legal history as the first woman appointed to the United States Supreme Court. Here are seven key facts about her:

She was nominated by President Ronald Reagan in 1981 and confirmed unanimously by the Senate, making her the first female justice to serve on the Supreme Court

Her appointment marked a significant milestone in women's rights and the legal profession, breaking barriers for women in the judiciary

O'Connor graduated near the top of her class from Stanford Law School in 1952, at a time when few women pursued legal careers. Despite facing discrimination, she excelled in her studies

She authored many influential opinions during her tenure, including the decision in Planned Parenthood v. Casey (1992), which upheld certain abortion rights established in Roe v. Wade.

O'Connor retired from the Supreme Court in 2006,She remained active in legal and civic engagements, advocating for judicial independence and civics education until her declining health.