The Legacy of Earl Warren, Part 3

In the third part of a series on the Warren Court, 1953-1969, in which time the Supreme Court issued many key rulings on civil rights, criminal rights, desegregation, and religious freedom. In 1956 President Eisenhower nominated Justice William Brennan, whose Catholicism became an issue during his nomination process. Professor of Law at University of California, Berkley, Robert Post discussed Justice Brennan’s nomination, his apolitical background, personality, and his impact on the Court. President Johnson nominated Justice Abe Fortas in 1965. Republicans and conservative Democrats vigorously opposed the nomination. In 1969, revelations of financial improprieties led to his resignation. Professor of History at University of California, Irvine Laura Kalman discussed his background and impact on the Court. close