Who was the first female Supreme Court Justice in the U.S.?

Sandra Day O'Connor was the first female Supreme Court Justice in the United States, appointed by President Ronald Reagan in 1981. Her appointment was significant not only because she was the first woman to serve on the nation's highest court, but also because it paved the way for future women in the judiciary and highlighted the importance of diverse representation in government roles. O'Connor's judicial career is noted for her pragmatic approach and her pivotal role in several landmark decisions, which often emphasized individual rights and states' rights.

The other justices listed have played important roles in the Supreme Court as well, but they came after O'Connor's historic appointment. Ruth Bader Ginsburg was the second female justice, appointed in 1993, while Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor were appointed later in 2009 and 2009, respectively. Understanding O'Connor's groundbreaking position in the court's history is crucial to appreciating the progress made in gender representation within the legal system.