William O. Douglas

Date of Birth: October 16, 1898

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: January 19, 1980

Biography

William Orville Douglas was an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, serving from 1939 to 1975. Born in Maine, Minnesota, he grew up in Yakima, Washington, and progressed to earn his undergraduate degree from Whitman College and his law degree from Columbia Law School. Known for his strong defense of civil liberties and environmental conservation, Douglas became the longest-serving justice in the history of the Supreme Court, with a tenure spanning 36 years. His legal philosophy was characterized by a commitment to individual rights and a broad interpretation of the Constitution’s guarantees. Douglas’s influence extended beyond the courtroom, as he was an avid outdoorsman and author, writing numerous books on subjects ranging from law to nature. He was a controversial figure, often clashing with his colleagues and facing multiple impeachment attempts. Nonetheless, his legacy endures, particularly in the areas of First Amendment rights and environmental law.

5 Interesting Facts about William O. Douglas

1. Douglas served as a Supreme Court Justice for 36 years, the longest tenure in the court’s history.

2. He was a passionate environmentalist and played a key role in the establishment of the National Wilderness Preservation System.

3. Douglas authored more opinions than any other justice in the history of the Supreme Court.

4. He survived multiple impeachment attempts, largely due to his outspoken and controversial nature.

5. Before his judicial career, Douglas was a professor at Yale Law School and the chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from William O. Douglas

1. “The liberties of none are safe unless the liberties of all are protected.”

2. “The Constitution is not neutral. It was designed to take the government off the backs of people.”

3. “The First Amendment was designed to allow for disruption of business as usual.”

4. “Common sense often makes good law.”

5. “We are a religious people whose institutions presuppose a Supreme Being.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

William O. Douglas’s net worth is not well-documented, but as a Supreme Court Justice, his salary would have been consistent with the public service sector. His highest net worth is estimated to be modest, likely not exceeding a few hundred thousand dollars.