Joan Ruth Bader Ginsburg was an American lawyer and jurist who served on the Supreme Court of the United States from 1993 to 2020. Appointed by President Bill Clinton, she was the first Jewish woman and the second woman to hold this position. Initially seen as a moderate, Ginsburg later became known for her strong dissents that reflected a liberal legal perspective. She gained significant public recognition and was affectionately nicknamed "The Notorious R.B.G.", a title she embraced.
March 15, 1933: Birth of Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Ruth Bader Ginsburg was born on March 15, 1933.
1953: Rightward Shift in the Court
The appointment of Amy Coney Barrett to replace Ruth Bader Ginsburg in 2020 marked one of three significant rightward shifts in the Supreme Court since 1953.
June 23, 1954: Graduation from Cornell University
Ruth Bader Ginsburg graduated from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in government on June 23, 1954.
1955: Birth of Jane C. Ginsburg
Ruth Bader Ginsburg and her husband, Martin D. Ginsburg, welcomed their daughter, Jane C. Ginsburg, in 1955. Jane Ginsburg would go on to become a professor at Columbia Law School.
1955: Birth of Daughter and Demtion
Ruth Bader Ginsburg gave birth to her daughter in 1955 and experienced a demotion at her job for becoming pregnant.
1956: Enrollment at Harvard Law School
Ruth Bader Ginsburg enrolled at Harvard Law School in 1956, becoming one of only nine women in her class.
1959: Graduation from Columbia Law School
In 1959, Ruth Bader Ginsburg graduated at the top of her class from Columbia Law School.
1960: Facing Gender Discrimination
In 1960, Ruth Bader Ginsburg faced gender discrimination when she was rejected for a Supreme Court clerkship despite her qualifications.
1961: Research and Advocacy at Columbia Law School
In 1961, Ruth Bader Ginsburg began working at Columbia Law School as a research associate.
1963: Research on Civil Procedure in Sweden
By 1963, Ruth Bader Ginsburg had become an associate director of the Columbia Law School Project on International Procedure, where she co-authored a book on civil procedure in Sweden.
1963: Professorship at Rutgers Law School
Ruth Bader Ginsburg began her professorship at Rutgers Law School in 1963.
1964: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin, was central to the Ledbetter v. Goodyear case.
1965: Birth of James Steven Ginsburg
In 1965, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Martin D. Ginsburg had their son, James Steven Ginsburg, who would later establish Cedille Records, a classical music recording company based in Chicago.
1965: Voting Rights Act of 1965
The Voting Rights Act of 1965, a landmark piece of legislation aimed at prohibiting racial discrimination in voting, faced a significant legal challenge in 2013. Ginsburg's impassioned dissent in the Shelby County v. Holder case highlighted the ongoing importance of this act in safeguarding voting rights, particularly for minority groups who had historically been disenfranchised.
1969: Resignation of Justice Abe Fortas
In 1969, Justice Abe Fortas, the first Jewish Supreme Court Justice, resigned from his position.
1969: Achieving Tenure
Ruth Bader Ginsburg received tenure at Rutgers Law School in 1969.
1969: Warren Burger's Appointment
The appointment of Warren Burger to replace Earl Warren in 1969 was a significant moment in the history of the Supreme Court.
1970: Co-founding the Women's Rights Law Reporter
In 1970, Ruth Bader Ginsburg co-founded the Women's Rights Law Reporter, a pioneering law journal dedicated to women's rights.
1971: Landmark Case: Reed v. Reed
In 1971, Ginsburg volunteered to write the brief for Reed v. Reed, a landmark case where the Supreme Court extended the Equal Protection Clause to women.
1971: Reed v. Reed
In 1971, during her first argument before the Supreme Court in Reed v. Reed, Ginsburg advocated for the use of foreign legal interpretations to inform US law. While some of her colleagues disagreed with this approach, Ginsburg viewed international law as a valuable source of insight and perspective, a practice she continued throughout her career.
1972: End of Tenure at Rutgers Law School
Ruth Bader Ginsburg's time as a professor of law at Rutgers Law School ended in 1972.
1972: Advocating for Men's Rights in Moritz v. Commissioner
In 1972, Ginsburg argued for a man denied a caregiver deduction based on gender in Moritz v. Commissioner, highlighting the impact of gender discrimination on both men and women.
1972: Teaching at Columbia Law School
Ruth Bader Ginsburg began teaching at Columbia Law School in 1972.
1972: Co-founds ACLU's Women's Rights Project
In 1972, Ruth Bader Ginsburg co-founded the Women's Rights Project at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), marking a pivotal step in her fight for gender equality.
1973: Victory in Frontiero v. Richardson
Ginsburg's argument in Frontiero v. Richardson, challenging discriminatory military benefits, led to an 8-1 Supreme Court victory in 1973, furthering the fight for gender equality.
1973: Becomes General Counsel of Women's Rights Project
In 1973, Ruth Bader Ginsburg took on the role of general counsel for the ACLU's Women's Rights Project, further solidifying her leadership in the fight for gender equality.
1973: Challenging Coercive Sterilization
In 1973, the same year as Roe v. Wade, Ginsburg challenged involuntary sterilization, representing a mother facing sterilization for receiving welfare benefits.
1973: 40th Anniversary of Roe v. Wade
On the 40th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision in 1973, which legalized abortion nationwide, Ginsburg expressed criticism, suggesting it may have hindered the development of a broader consensus on abortion rights.
1974: Women's Rights Project Tackles Gender Discrimination
By 1974, the Women's Rights Project, under Ginsburg's leadership, participated in over 300 gender discrimination cases, demonstrating a commitment to challenging systemic inequality.
1975: Challenging Gender Bias in Social Security Benefits
In 1975, Ginsburg successfully argued Weinberger v. Wiesenfeld, securing survivor benefits for widowers and dismantling discriminatory practices in Social Security.
1976: Strategic Litigation for Gender Equality
By 1976, Ginsburg had argued six gender discrimination cases before the Supreme Court, winning five, and establishing a pattern of strategic litigation that advanced women's rights.
1976: Establishing Intermediate Scrutiny in Craig v. Boren
Ginsburg's amicus brief in the 1976 case Craig v. Boren led to the court applying intermediate scrutiny to gender-based laws, a higher standard of review.
1977: Fellowship at Stanford University
Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a fellow at the Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University starting in 1977.
1978: End of Fellowship at Stanford University
Ruth Bader Ginsburg's fellowship at Stanford University concluded in 1978.
1978: Congress Addresses Judicial Backlog, Prioritizes Diversity
The Omnibus Judgeship Act of 1978 aimed to address the federal judiciary's backlog and emphasized appointing more women and minorities, aligning with President Carter's goals.
January 1979: Ginsburg Explores Judicial Opportunities
In January 1979, Ginsburg, considering a career change, filled out questionnaires for potential judgeships, signaling her interest in joining the federal bench.
1979: Final Case Before Supreme Court: Duren v. Missouri
In 1979, Ginsburg argued her final case as an attorney before the Supreme Court, Duren v. Missouri, challenging the voluntary nature of jury duty for women.
April 14, 1980: Nominated to the DC Circuit Court of Appeals
President Carter nominated Ginsburg to the DC Circuit Court of Appeals on April 14, 1980, recognizing her expertise and commitment to justice.
June 18, 1980: Confirmation to the DC Circuit
The Senate confirmed Ginsburg's appointment on June 18, 1980, marking the beginning of her tenure on the DC Circuit Court of Appeals.
1980: End of Time at Columbia Law School
Ruth Bader Ginsburg's time teaching at Columbia Law School came to an end in 1980.
1980: Appointment to the U.S. Court of Appeals
President Jimmy Carter appointed Ruth Bader Ginsburg to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in 1980.
1980: Leaving a Legacy in Women's Rights Law
By 1980, Ginsburg had cemented her legacy as a champion of women's rights, her work leading to significant legal advancements for women under the Equal Protection Clause.
1981: John Roberts' Advice on Confirmation Responses
In 1981, as a young attorney, John Roberts advised against Supreme Court nominees providing specific responses during confirmation hearings.
1985: Recognition as the "Thurgood Marshall of Women's Rights"
In 1985, Erwin Griswold, former solicitor general and Ginsburg's professor, called her the "Thurgood Marshall of women's rights," recognizing her impactful advocacy.
1991: Clarence Thomas's Appointment
The appointment of Clarence Thomas to replace Thurgood Marshall in 1991 marked a rightward shift in the Supreme Court.
June 22, 1993: Nomination to the Supreme Court
On June 22, 1993, President Bill Clinton nominated Ruth Bader Ginsburg as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, to fill the seat vacated by retiring Justice Byron White. This nomination was significant as she was the first Jewish female justice and was seen as a moderate and consensus-builder.
August 3, 1993: Senate Confirmation
On August 3, 1993, the United States Senate confirmed Ruth Bader Ginsburg's nomination to the Supreme Court by a vote of 96-3.
August 5, 1993: Commission Received
Ruth Bader Ginsburg received her commission as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court on August 5, 1993.
August 9, 1993: Elevation to the Supreme Court
Ginsburg's service on the DC Circuit ended on August 9, 1993, upon her elevation to the United States Supreme Court, a testament to her exceptional legal career.
August 10, 1993: Judicial Oath
On August 10, 1993, Ruth Bader Ginsburg took her judicial oath, officially becoming an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court.
1993: Appointment to the Supreme Court
In 1993, Ruth Bader Ginsburg was nominated by President Bill Clinton and appointed as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States.
1993: Lack of Clerk Diversity Raised During Confirmation
During her 1993 confirmation hearing, the issue of Ginsburg's lack of diversity in hiring clerks was raised by the Senate Judiciary Committee. Ginsburg stated her belief that her confirmation would make her more attractive to black candidates.
1994: Ginsburg's Opera Debut
Ginsburg made her first appearance in the opera "Ariadne auf Naxos" in 1994.
1996: Landmark Ruling in United States v. Virginia
In 1996, Ginsburg authored the landmark Supreme Court decision in United States v. Virginia, which struck down the Virginia Military Institute's (VMI) male-only admissions policy. She argued that excluding women violated the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.
1996: United States v. Virginia
In 1996, Ruth Bader Ginsburg authored the majority opinion in the landmark case of United States v. Virginia.
January 20, 1997: Ginsburg Administers Vice President's Oath
Ginsburg swore in Vice President Al Gore for his second term during Bill Clinton's second inauguration on January 20, 1997, becoming the third woman to do so.
1997: Strate v. A-1 Contractors
In 1997, Ginsburg wrote the majority opinion in Strate v. A-1 Contractors, a case concerning tribal jurisdiction. The Court's decision, while unanimous, drew criticism from some legal scholars specializing in Indian law, highlighting the complex and often contentious nature of cases involving tribal sovereignty and jurisdiction.
1999: Olmstead v. L.C.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg authored the majority opinion in the case of Olmstead v. L.C. in 1999.
1999: Olmstead v. L.C.
In 1999, Ginsburg authored the majority opinion for Olmstead v. L.C., a landmark case where the Court determined that mental illness is a form of disability and therefore protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
1999: Colon Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Ginsburg faced her first battle with cancer in 1999 when she was diagnosed with colon cancer. Despite undergoing surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, she continued her work on the bench without interruption.
2000: Striking Down Nebraska's Partial-Birth Abortion Law
In 2000, Ginsburg joined the Court's decision in Stenberg v. Carhart, which struck down Nebraska's partial-birth abortion law.
2000: Friends of the Earth, Inc. v. Laidlaw Environmental Services, Inc.
In 2000, Ruth Bader Ginsburg authored the majority opinion in the case of Friends of the Earth, Inc. v. Laidlaw Environmental Services, Inc.
2000: Friends of the Earth, Inc. v. Laidlaw Environmental Services, Inc.
Ginsburg penned the majority opinion in 2000 for Friends of the Earth, Inc. v. Laidlaw Environmental Services, Inc., a case where the Court affirmed the right of residents to seek penalties against an industrial polluter. The Court recognized the residents' right to take action against pollution impacting their interests.
June 27, 2002: Board of Education v. Earls
On June 27, 2002, the Supreme Court decided on Board of Education v. Earls. Ginsburg dissented, criticizing the court's decision to permit mandatory drug testing for students in extracurricular activities, arguing that the school district failed to demonstrate a significant drug problem among students or within the school environment.
2002: Induction into the National Women's Hall of Fame
In 2002, Ruth Bader Ginsburg was recognized for her significant contributions to the advancement of women with her induction into the National Women's Hall of Fame.
2003: Ginsburg's Opera Appearance
In 2003, Ginsburg made a non-speaking appearance in the opera "Die Fledermaus."
2003: Gratz v. Bollinger
In 2003, Ginsburg's commitment to affirmative action was evident in her dissenting opinion in Gratz v. Bollinger. She argued that affirmative action policies were crucial to rectifying historical injustices and promoting equal opportunity, emphasizing the distinction between policies designed to exclude and those designed to include.
2003: Grutter v. Bollinger
In 2003, in her concurring opinion for Grutter v. Bollinger, Ginsburg again referenced international law, highlighting the global consensus on the importance of affirmative action in combating discrimination. Her consistent advocacy for considering international perspectives in legal decisions reflected her belief in a broader, more interconnected legal landscape.
May 31, 2005: Majority Opinion in Cutter v. Wilkinson
On May 31, 2005, Ginsburg wrote the majority opinion in Cutter v. Wilkinson, affirming that institutions receiving federal funds cannot deny prisoners reasonable accommodations for their religious practices, as per the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA).
September 28, 2005: Support for John Roberts' Confirmation Approach
On September 28, 2005, during a speech at Wake Forest University, Justice Ginsburg defended John Roberts' refusal to answer specific questions during his Senate confirmation hearings, stating his approach was "unquestionably right."
December 2005: Wagnon v. Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation
Less than a year after the Sherrill case, in December 2005, Ginsburg presented a different stance on Native American law. She dissented in Wagnon v. Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, arguing against a state tax levied on fuel sold to Potawatomi retailers. Ginsburg believed this tax encroached on the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation's own taxing authority.
2005: City of Sherrill v. Oneida Indian Nation of New York
In 2005, Ginsburg delivered the majority opinion in the City of Sherrill v. Oneida Indian Nation of New York case, ruling that the Oneida Indian Nation couldn't reclaim sovereignty over their ancestral land. Ginsburg's opinion reasoned that the land, after being taken from the Oneidas, had been transformed from its wild state and had a long history separate from the tribe. This decision sparked controversy as it was seen by some to undermine indigenous land claims.
2005: City of Sherrill v. Oneida Indian Nation of New York
In 2005, Ruth Bader Ginsburg authored the majority opinion for the case of City of Sherrill v. Oneida Indian Nation of New York
2006: Emergence as a Pop Culture Icon
After Sandra Day O'Connor's retirement in 2006, Ruth Bader Ginsburg became the sole female justice, leading to her rise as a "pop culture icon" and "American cultural icon".
2006: Sole Female Justice and Finding Her Voice
Following Justice Sandra Day O'Connor's retirement in 2006, Ginsburg became the sole female justice on the Supreme Court. This period marked a time when she became more vocal, reading multiple dissents from the bench to express disagreement with the majority.
2006: Sole Female Justice on the Supreme Court
Following the retirement of Sandra Day O'Connor in 2006, Ruth Bader Ginsburg became the sole female justice on the Supreme Court.
2007: Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg delivered a notable dissent in the 2007 case of Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.
2007: A Notable Term on the Court
The 2006-2007 term of the Supreme Court was significant for Justice Ginsburg as she became more assertive in expressing her opinions, frequently utilizing dissents from the bench.
2007: Dissent in Ledbetter v. Goodyear
Ginsburg issued a strong dissent in the 2007 Ledbetter v. Goodyear case, where the Court ruled against Lilly Ledbetter's claim of gender-based pay discrimination. Ginsburg argued that the ruling's interpretation of the statute of limitations was unfair to women who might not be immediately aware of pay disparities.
2007: Dissent in Gonzales v. Carhart
Ginsburg dissented in the 2007 Gonzales v. Carhart case, where the Court upheld restrictions on partial-birth abortion, disagreeing with the majority's deference to legislative findings on the procedure's safety.
2008: Passage of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act
Following Ginsburg's advocacy and the election of President Barack Obama, the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act was passed in 2008, amending Title VII to make it easier for employees to pursue pay discrimination claims.
2008: Plains Commerce Bank v. Long Family Land & Cattle Co.
In 2008, Ginsburg's precedent set in the Strate case was referenced in Plains Commerce Bank v. Long Family Land & Cattle Co. Ginsburg, however, chose to partially dissent in this instance, arguing in favor of the Cheyenne River Lakota Nation's tribal court having jurisdiction over the case.
January 26, 2009: Arizona v. Johnson
On January 26, 2009, the Supreme Court reached a unanimous decision in Arizona v. Johnson, with Ginsburg authoring the opinion. The Court held that police officers have the authority to conduct a pat-down search of an individual during a traffic stop if they possess reasonable suspicion that the person is armed and poses a danger. Ginsburg's opinion clarified the scope of police authority during traffic stops, balancing safety concerns with individual rights.
February 5, 2009: Pancreatic Cancer Surgery
On February 5, 2009, Ginsburg underwent surgery for pancreatic cancer after a tumor was detected early.
February 13, 2009: Release from Hospital
Following her pancreatic cancer surgery, Ginsburg was discharged from a New York City hospital on February 13, 2009.
February 23, 2009: Return to the Bench
Ginsburg demonstrated her resilience by returning to her duties on the Supreme Court bench on February 23, 2009, shortly after her pancreatic cancer surgery.
2009: Sonia Sotomayor's Appointment
With the appointment of Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court in 2009, Ruth Bader Ginsburg was no longer the only female justice.
2009: Ginsburg's Views on Abortion and Gender Equality
In a 2009 New York Times interview, Ginsburg reiterated her stance on abortion rights, stating that the government shouldn't interfere in a woman's decision.
2009: Recognition as One of 100 Most Powerful Women
Ruth Bader Ginsburg was recognized as one of the 100 Most Powerful Women in 2009, highlighting her impact and influence.
2009: Herring v. United States
In 2009, during the Herring v. United States case, Ginsburg dissented from the majority decision not to suppress evidence obtained due to a police officer's failure to update a computer system. Her dissent emphasized the importance of suppression as a remedy for Fourth Amendment violations, highlighting the need to hold police accountable and safeguard civil liberties.
2009: Lifetime Achievement Award from Scribes
In 2009, Ruth Bader Ginsburg's contributions to legal writing were recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award from Scribes—The American Society of Legal Writers.
2009: Safford Unified School District v. Redding
In 2009, Ginsburg played a key role in Safford Unified School District v. Redding. Though not the author of the majority opinion, her influence was evident. The Court ruled that a school's strip search of a 13-year-old girl was a violation of the Fourth Amendment. Ginsburg's perspective, emphasizing the impact of such a search on a young girl, contributed to the Court's decision.
2009: Shared Stage with Scalia
Ginsburg and Scalia shared the stage in a production of "Ariadne auf Naxos" in 2009.
2009: Controversial Quote on Roe v. Wade
During a 2009 interview, Ginsburg's comments on Roe v. Wade sparked controversy, with some interpreting her words as supporting population control.
June 27, 2010: Death of Martin D. Ginsburg
On June 27, 2010, Martin D. Ginsburg, Ruth Bader Ginsburg's husband, passed away from complications related to metastatic cancer. This date held significance as it fell just four days after their 56th wedding anniversary.
June 28, 2010: Christian Legal Society v. Martinez
On June 28, 2010, the Supreme Court, with Ginsburg authoring the majority opinion, ruled in Christian Legal Society v. Martinez that a religious group's exclusionary membership policies conflicted with a university's "all-comers" policy for recognized student organizations. The Court upheld the university's policy, emphasizing the importance of equal access and open membership in a limited public forum like a university campus.
August 2010: Ginsburg Continues to Serve
When John Paul Stevens retired in 2010, Ginsburg, at 77, became the oldest justice on the Court. Despite speculation about retirement due to age and the passing of her husband, Ginsburg remained committed to her role. In August 2010, she stated that her work provided solace and that she aimed to emulate Justice Louis Brandeis's long service.
January 2012: Ginsburg's Visit to Egypt
Ginsburg visited Egypt in January 2012 to engage with judges, legal experts, and students. She emphasized the importance of a new constitution that protected fundamental human rights, similar to the US First Amendment. Ginsburg suggested Egypt draw inspiration from various constitutions, including the US and South Africa's, while acknowledging the historical context of their drafting.
2012: Glamour Magazine's Woman of the Year
In 2012, Ruth Bader Ginsburg was named one of Glamour magazine's Women of the Year, celebrating her achievements and influence.
2012: Clarifying Stance on Roe v. Wade
Ginsburg addressed the 2009 controversy in 2012, clarifying her stance on Roe v. Wade and emphasizing her commitment to reproductive rights.
August 31, 2013: Ginsburg Officiates Same-Sex Wedding
Ginsburg is believed to be the first Supreme Court justice to officiate a same-sex wedding, marrying Kennedy Center president Michael Kaiser and economist John Roberts on August 31, 2013. Ginsburg's decision to officiate reflected her belief in marriage equality, particularly after the Court's rulings earlier that summer supporting same-sex marriage rights.
2013: Painting Unveiled at Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery
A painting honoring Ruth Bader Ginsburg and the other three female justices who served on the Supreme Court was revealed at the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery in 2013.
2013: Decision Not to Retire
Despite calls for her to step down to allow a Democratic president to appoint her successor, Ruth Bader Ginsburg chose not to retire in 2013.
2013: Ginsburg Declines Calls to Retire
During Obama's presidency, there were calls for Ginsburg to retire to allow a like-minded successor. However, she remained steadfast in her position, believing Republicans would obstruct the appointment of a similar jurist. Ginsburg instead drew inspiration from Justice John Paul Stevens, who retired at 90 after 35 years.
2013: Shelby County v. Holder
In 2013, Ginsburg issued a powerful dissent in Shelby County v. Holder, a case in which the Court struck down a key provision of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Her dissent criticized the majority's decision to invalidate the preclearance requirement, arguing that it undermined the act's effectiveness in protecting voting rights and risked a return to discriminatory practices.
2013: Texas Law Regulating Abortion Providers
In 2013, Texas passed a law imposing strict regulations on abortion providers. This law was later challenged in the Supreme Court case Whole Woman's Health v. Hellerstedt.
2013: Introduction of "Scalia/Ginsburg" Opera at the Supreme Court
Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Antonin Scalia were introduced to the opera "Scalia/Ginsburg" at the Supreme Court in 2013.
November 2014: Coronary Artery Stent Placement
In November 2014, Ginsburg experienced discomfort while exercising, leading to a procedure to place a stent in her right coronary artery.
2014: Screenplay Recognition
The screenplay for "On the Basis of Sex", which would be released in 2018, was featured on the Black List of best unproduced screenplays in 2014.
2014: Continued Service
Ruth Bader Ginsburg continued her service on the Supreme Court into 2014.
2014: Ginsburg's Jabot Collection
In 2014, Ginsburg shared insights into her collection of lace jabots, revealing that she had specific ones she wore when issuing dissenting and majority opinions.
March 2015: Publication of "The Heroic and Visionary Women of Passover"
Ginsburg collaborated with Rabbi Lauren Holtzblatt to publish an essay titled "The Heroic and Visionary Women of Passover" in March 2015, highlighting the significant roles of women in the Passover story.
April 21, 2015: Rodriguez v. United States
On April 21, 2015, the Supreme Court issued a ruling in Rodriguez v. United States, with Ginsburg authoring the majority opinion. The Court held that police officers cannot prolong a routine traffic stop to conduct a search using a drug-sniffing dog. Ginsburg's opinion reinforced the principle that law enforcement must have reasonable suspicion of criminal activity to justify extending a traffic stop beyond its initial purpose, safeguarding against unreasonable searches and seizures.
October 2015: Publication of "Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg"
The book "Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg", which explores the life and career of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, was released in October 2015 and became a New York Times bestseller.
2015: Ginsburg on SNL and in Literature
Beginning in 2015, Kate McKinnon began portraying Ginsburg on "Saturday Night Live", a recurring role that has continued. Also in 2015, Linda Hirshman's book "Sisters in Law" was published, chronicling the careers of Sandra Day O'Connor and Ginsburg.
2015: Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People
Ruth Bader Ginsburg was acknowledged for her global impact by being named one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people in 2015.
2015: Premiere of "Scalia/Ginsburg" Opera
The world premiere of the opera "Scalia/Ginsburg", featuring fictionalized versions of Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Antonin Scalia, took place at the 2015 Castleton Festival.
April 2016: Ginsburg Achieves Brandeis's Tenure
By April 2016, Ginsburg had achieved her goal of matching Justice Brandeis's tenure of nearly 23 years on the Court.
July 2016: Ginsburg's Comments on Trump
In July 2016, Ginsburg openly criticized then-presidential candidate Donald Trump, expressing concerns about a potential Trump presidency. Though she later apologized for the remarks, her comments sparked debate about the role of the judiciary in political discourse.
October 4, 2016: Release of "My Own Words"
On October 4, 2016, Ruth Bader Ginsburg's first book, "My Own Words", was published by Simon & Schuster. The book, a collection of her writings and speeches, debuted on The New York Times Best Seller List for hardcover nonfiction at No. 12.
October 2016: Colin Kaepernick Controversy
In October 2016, while promoting her book, Ginsburg called Colin Kaepernick's protests during the national anthem "really dumb." She later issued an apology, acknowledging that her comments were "inappropriately dismissive and harsh."
2016: Concurrence and Criticism in Whole Woman's Health v. Hellerstedt
Ginsburg joined the majority and wrote a concurring opinion in the 2016 Whole Woman's Health v. Hellerstedt case, striking down parts of a 2013 Texas law regulating abortion providers. She argued that the law aimed to restrict access to abortion rather than protect women's health.
2016: McKinnon's Ginsburg Continues
Kate McKinnon continued her portrayal of Ginsburg on "Saturday Night Live", including a memorable sketch from the 2016 Republican National Convention.
2016: Critique of Ginsburg's Progressive Icon Status
In 2016, Current Affairs magazine questioned the portrayal of Ruth Bader Ginsburg as a progressive icon, pointing out the moderate nature of her voting record.
2016: Speaking Role in Opera
Ginsburg took a speaking role, with lines she wrote herself, in the 2016 production of "The Daughter of the Regiment."
2016: Trump's Victory and Ginsburg's Decision
Following Trump's election and a Republican Senate win in 2016, speculation rose about Ginsburg's retirement plans. She would have needed to wait until at least 2021 for a Democratic president to ensure a successor aligned with her views.
2017: Georgetown University Symposium Keynote Address
In 2017, Ginsburg delivered the keynote address at a Georgetown University symposium focused on governmental reform, advocating for improvements to the confirmation process.
2017: Revised "Scalia/Ginsburg" Opera at Glimmerglass Festival
Ruth Bader Ginsburg attended a revised performance of the opera "Scalia/Ginsburg" at the 2017 Glimmerglass Festival.
November 8, 2018: Rib Fractures and Cancer Discovery
Ginsburg was hospitalized on November 8, 2018, after a fall in her office resulted in three fractured ribs. During her hospitalization, a CT scan revealed cancerous nodules in her lungs.
December 2018: Lung Cancer Surgery
Ginsburg underwent a left-lung lobectomy in December 2018 at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center to address cancerous nodules discovered in her lungs.
2018: Support for the MeToo Movement
Ginsburg voiced her support for the MeToo movement in 2018, emphasizing the importance of women speaking out against sexual harassment and noting the positive shift in legal support for victims.
2018: Ginsburg in Film and on Colbert
The year 2018 saw the release of the documentary "RBG" and the biopic "On the Basis of Sex", both centered on Ginsburg's life and career. She also appeared on "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert", demonstrating her workout routine.
January 7, 2019: Absence from Oral Argument
For the first time in her tenure on the Supreme Court, Ginsburg missed an oral argument on January 7, 2019, as she recovered from her lung cancer surgery.
February 2019: Ginsburg's Pop Culture Cameos
In February 2019, a Lego mini-figurine of Ginsburg appeared in "The Lego Movie 2", with her blessing. Samuel Adams also released a limited-edition beer called "When There Are Nine", referencing Ginsburg's famous reply about women on the Supreme Court.
February 15, 2019: Return to Supreme Court After Surgery
Ginsburg marked her return to the Supreme Court on February 15, 2019, following her lung cancer surgery, participating in a private conference with fellow justices.
August 2019: Radiation Treatment for Pancreatic Tumor
The Supreme Court announced in August 2019 that Ginsburg had completed three weeks of targeted radiation therapy to treat a tumor found in her pancreas.
2019: Berggruen Prize for Philosophy and Culture
Ruth Bader Ginsburg was awarded the $1 million Berggruen Prize for Philosophy and Culture in 2019, recognizing her as a trailblazer for human rights and gender equality, and she donated all the prize money to various charitable organizations.
2019: "Notorious RBG" Exhibition
The Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles created an exhibition in 2019 focusing on the life and career of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, titled "Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg".
2019: Establishment of the Ruth Bader Ginsburg Woman of Leadership Award
In 2019, Ruth Bader Ginsburg collaborated with the Dwight D. Opperman Foundation to establish the Ruth Bader Ginsburg Woman of Leadership Award.
January 2020: Cancer-Free Status
By January 2020, Ginsburg was reported to be free of cancer.
February 2020: Cancer Recurrence
Ginsburg experienced a recurrence of cancer in February 2020, although this information was not publicly disclosed at the time.
February 2020: World Peace & Liberty Award
In February 2020, Ruth Bader Ginsburg received the World Peace & Liberty Award from the World Jurist Association and the World Law Foundation.
February 2020: First Ruth Bader Ginsburg Woman of Leadership Award
Ruth Bader Ginsburg presented the inaugural Ruth Bader Ginsburg Woman of Leadership Award to philanthropist Agnes Gund in February 2020.
May 2020: Continued Cancer Treatment and Commitment to the Court
In May 2020, Ginsburg's cancer treatment continued, and she affirmed her dedication to remaining on the Supreme Court for as long as she was able to perform her duties fully.
September 2020: Death and Legacy
Ruth Bader Ginsburg died in September 2020, leaving behind a significant legacy.
September 2020: Ginsburg Passes Away
Ginsburg remained in office until her passing in September 2020 at 87.
September 18, 2020: Death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Ruth Bader Ginsburg passed away on September 18, 2020.
November 7, 2020: National Radio Broadcast of "Scalia/Ginsburg" Opera
The opera "Scalia/Ginsburg", which fictionalizes the relationship between Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Antonin Scalia, was broadcasted on national radio on November 7, 2020.
2020: McGirt v. Oklahoma
In 2020, Ginsburg sided with the ruling in McGirt v. Oklahoma, a decision that acknowledged Native American jurisdiction over reservation lands within a large portion of Oklahoma.
2020: Death and Succession Controversy
The death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg in 2020 led to controversies regarding the nomination and confirmation of her successor on the Supreme Court. Her dying wish was for her replacement to be appointed by the new president.
2020: Renewed Attention on Clerk Diversity
Following Justice Ginsburg's death in 2020, the lack of diversity in her clerk hires throughout her career received renewed attention, particularly as over a hundred of her former clerks, predominantly white, served as pallbearers at her funeral.
2021: Katie Couric Interview Revelation
In 2021, Katie Couric revealed that she had edited out portions of her 2016 interview with Ginsburg where the Justice made critical comments about athletes who protested during the national anthem.
March 31, 2022: USNS Ruth Bader Ginsburg Naming Announcement
On March 31, 2022, the U.S. Navy revealed its decision to name one of its replenishment oilers the USNS Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
August 2022: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Hall Opening at Cornell University
August 2022 marked the opening of Ruth Bader Ginsburg Hall, a residence hall at Cornell University, named in honor of the late Supreme Court Justice.
March 2023: Supreme Court Holds Bar Memorial for Ginsburg
A special session and bar memorial were held in March 2023 by the Supreme Court to pay tribute to the legacy of Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
2023: Ruth Bader Ginsburg USPS Forever Stamp
In 2023, the USPS honored Ruth Bader Ginsburg by featuring her on a Forever stamp, further solidifying her place in American history.
March 18, 2024: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Woman of Leadership Award Controversy and Cancellation
Following the inclusion of figures seen as misaligned with Ginsburg's values, the Ruth Bader Ginsburg Woman of Leadership Award, established in 2019, saw its 2024 edition canceled, and the foundation reconsidered its mission.
2026: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Hall Welcomes Class of 2026
The newly opened Ruth Bader Ginsburg Hall at Cornell University welcomed its first residents, the Class of 2026, in August 2022.