Early Life and Education of David Souter: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 9, 2025

How education and upbringing influenced the life of David Souter. A timeline of key moments.

David Hackett Souter was an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1990 to 2009. Appointed by President George H.W. Bush, he succeeded William J. Brennan Jr. He served under both Chief Justices Rehnquist and Roberts. Souter, initially perceived as a conservative, became known for his moderate to liberal jurisprudence during his tenure on the Court.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

1904: Birth of Joseph Alexander Souter

In 1904, Joseph Alexander Souter was born.

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1907: Birth of Helen Adams (Hackett) Souter

In 1907, Helen Adams (Hackett) Souter was born.

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September 17, 1939: David Souter Born

On September 17, 1939, David Hackett Souter was born. He would later become an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.

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1957: Graduation from Concord High School

In 1957, David Souter graduated second in his class from Concord High School.

1961: Graduation from Harvard University

In 1961, David Souter graduated from Harvard University with a Bachelor of Arts, magna cum laude, in philosophy.

1963: Graduation from Magdalen College, Oxford

In 1963, David Souter earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Jurisprudence from Magdalen College, Oxford.

1966: Graduation from Harvard Law School

In 1966, David Souter graduated with a Bachelor of Laws degree from Harvard Law School.

1976: Death of Joseph Alexander Souter

In 1976, Joseph Alexander Souter, David Souter's father, passed away.

1995: Death of Helen Adams (Hackett) Souter

In 1995, Helen Adams (Hackett) Souter, David Souter's mother, passed away.

2004: Mugging Incident

In 2004, David Souter was mugged while jogging in Washington, D.C., sustaining minor injuries that required treatment at the MedStar Washington Hospital Center.

2007: Low-Tech Lifestyle

According to Jeffrey Toobin's 2007 book, "The Nine", Justice Souter maintained a low-tech lifestyle, preferring a fountain pen, no email, cellphone, or answering machine. He drove to New Hampshire for the summer and enjoyed mountain climbing.

August 2009: Moved to Hopkinton, New Hampshire

In August 2009, David Souter moved from his family farmhouse in Weare to a Cape Cod-style house in Hopkinton, New Hampshire. He cited structural concerns with the farmhouse and the desire for single-level living as reasons for the move, referencing the thousands of books he owns.