Frank Murphy

Date of Birth: April 13, 1890

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: July 19, 1949

Biography

Frank Murphy was an influential American politician and jurist who played a significant role in the 20th-century political landscape. Born on April 13, 1890, in Harbor Beach, Michigan, Murphy’s career was marked by his unwavering commitment to justice and equality. After graduating from the University of Michigan Law School, he served in World War I before embarking on a notable political career. Murphy served as the Mayor of Detroit, Governor of Michigan, U.S. Attorney General, and ultimately as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. As Mayor of Detroit, Murphy navigated the city through the Great Depression, implementing progressive policies to aid struggling citizens. His tenure as Governor of Michigan was marked by his efforts to mediate labor disputes, most notably the United Auto Workers strike against General Motors. As U.S. Attorney General, he established the Civil Rights Section, laying the groundwork for future civil rights advancements. In 1940, President Franklin D. Roosevelt appointed Murphy to the Supreme Court, where he became known for his liberal views and strong advocacy for civil liberties. He authored several landmark opinions, including his dissenting opinion in Korematsu v. United States, condemning the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.

5 Interesting Facts about Frank Murphy

1. Frank Murphy served as the Mayor of Detroit from 1930 to 1933.

2. He was the Governor of Michigan from 1937 to 1939.

3. As U.S. Attorney General, Murphy established the Civil Rights Section in the Department of Justice.

4. Murphy was appointed as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court in 1940 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

5. He was known for his dissenting opinion in Korematsu v. United States, criticizing the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Frank Murphy

1. “Justice cannot be for one side alone, but must be for both.”

2. “The Constitution was not written to restrain the government, but to protect the people.”

3. “Liberty lies in the hearts of men and women; when it dies there, no constitution, no law, no court can save it.”

4. “The law is not a light for you or any man to see by; the law is not an instrument of justice; the law is a causeway upon which so long as he keeps to it, a citizen may walk safely.”

5. “The essence of due process is the requirement of notice and an opportunity to be heard.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Frank Murphy’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but as a public servant during the early to mid-20th century, it is likely that his net worth was modest, in line with the earnings of a government official of his time.