Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg is a biography written by Irin Carmon and Shana Knizhnik. The book chronicles the life of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a trailblazing lawyer, judge, and women’s rights advocate. Through interviews with Ginsburg herself, as well as her friends, family, and colleagues, the authors provide an intimate look at the life of this remarkable woman.
Chapter 1: The Early Years
The first chapter of Notorious RBG delves into Ginsburg’s childhood and early education. Born in Brooklyn in 1933, Ginsburg was raised in a working-class family that valued education and hard work. Her mother, who had graduated from high school but never had the opportunity to attend college, instilled in her daughter a love of learning and a desire to succeed.
Chapter 2: Law School and the Beginning of a Career
After graduating from Cornell University, Ginsburg attended Harvard Law School, one of the few women in her class. Despite facing discrimination and sexism from her male classmates and professors, Ginsburg excelled academically and was awarded a prestigious clerkship after graduation. However, she was passed over for a job at a prestigious law firm due to her gender.
Chapter 3: Fighting for Women’s Rights
Ginsburg’s passion for women’s rights was ignited during her time at Harvard Law School, where she met her husband, Martin Ginsburg. Together, they fought for gender equality and worked to change laws that discriminated against women. Ginsburg also worked as a lawyer for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), where she argued several landmark cases that advanced women’s rights.
Chapter 4: The Supreme Court
In 1993, President Bill Clinton nominated Ginsburg to the Supreme Court, making her the second woman to serve on the court. During her time on the bench, Ginsburg became known for her sharp wit and her commitment to justice and equality. She authored several important opinions, including the majority opinion in United States v. Virginia, which struck down a state-sponsored college that only admitted men.
Chapter 5: The Notorious RBG
Ginsburg’s fame as a feminist icon grew in the years following her appointment to the Supreme Court. In 2015, a Tumblr account was created in her honor, featuring humorous memes and quotes. Ginsburg herself embraced her newfound fame, even appearing in a music video with rapper Jay-Z. Her commitment to justice and her refusal to be silenced made her a role model for women and men around the world.
Conclusion
Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg is a compelling and inspiring biography of a woman who overcame numerous obstacles to become one of the most influential jurists in American history. Through her work as a lawyer, judge, and advocate, Ginsburg fought for justice and equality for all people. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of activists and leaders, and her story serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance and determination.
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