Potter Stewart (1915-1985) was an American judge and attorney who served as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court from 1958 to 1981. He is best known for his significant contributions to legal interpretation, particularly in the area of constitutional law.
Born in Jackson, Michigan, Stewart obtained an undergraduate degree from Yale University and later graduated from Yale Law School in 1941. Following this, he served in the United States Naval Reserve during World War II. After the war, Stewart embarked on a successful legal career, practicing law in partnership with a prominent law firm in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Stewart was appointed to the Supreme Court by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, joining the bench on October 14, 1958. During his tenure, he became renowned for his approach to constitutional interpretation. Stewart is often associated with his famous quote, "I know it when I see it," which he used to describe his definition of obscenity in a case concerning the First Amendment. This statement has since become iconic and is often referenced in discussions about the limits of free speech.
Throughout his years on the Court, Stewart consistently demonstrated a commitment to protecting individual rights and liberties while balancing the needs of society as a whole. He authored several notable decisions on issues such as First Amendment rights, criminal procedure, and the Fourth Amendment.
Potter Stewart retired from the Supreme Court on July 3, 1981, after a distinguished 23-year tenure. He passed away on December 7, 1985, leaving behind a lasting legacy as an esteemed jurist and advocate for justice.
