Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Ruth Bader Ginsburg was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1933. She was one of the most famous judges in United States history. People called her RBG for short. She spent her life working so girls and women could have the same chances as boys and men.

Learning the Law

Ruth was a very smart student. She went to Harvard Law School, but there were very few women there. Later she became a law teacher. As a lawyer, she won many court cases that helped women get equal rights.

Judge Ruth Bader Ginsburg wearing her college graduation robes.
Judge Ruth Bader Ginsburg wearing her college graduation robes. (Columbia University / Wikimedia Commons)

Supreme Court Judge

In 1993, President Bill Clinton picked Ruth to be a judge on the Supreme Court. This is the highest court in America. She served there for 27 years. Her decisions helped make America more fair for everyone.

Fun Facts

  • She loved opera music very much.
  • She worked out in a gym even when she was in her 80s.
  • A book and movie about her life are called Notorious RBG.

Did You Know?

Ruth wore fancy lace collars over her black judge robes. Each collar had a different meaning.