Photo: Okamoto, Yoichi R. (Yoichi Robert) Photographer, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Who He Is:
Thurgood Marshall was the first African American Supreme Court Justice and a lawyer who fought against segregation. Before joining the Court, he argued and won the landmark case Brown v. Board of Education, which led to the end of racial segregation in schools.
Why He Matters:
Marshall showed that lawyers can change the course of history. His belief in equality and his persistence in court helped create a more just America. He demonstrates that one person’s voice in the courtroom can help millions.
Learn More About Thurgood Marshall
Go deeper with these hand-picked resources. Each one is selected by our team of educators to connect kids to this career through real stories and hands-on learning.
Amazing Americans Thurgood Marshall
Why We Picked It
Devil in the Grove: Thurgood Marshall, the Groveland Boys, and the Dawn of a New America ― A Pulitzer Prize-Winning Civil Rights History (P.S.)
Why We Picked It
Thurgood Marshall: American Revolutionary
Why We Picked It
