George Shiras Jr. was born on January 26, 1832 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He came from a well-respected family, with his father serving as a member of the Pennsylvania Senate. Shiras attended Yale College, where he graduated in 1853 with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
After completing his education, Shiras began his legal career by studying law and was admitted to the Pennsylvania bar in 1856. He practiced law in Pittsburgh for several years before eventually being appointed as a judge on the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania in 1882.
In 1892, Shiras was nominated by President Benjamin Harrison to serve as an associate justice on the United States Supreme Court. He was confirmed by the Senate and took his seat on the bench later that year. During his time on the Court, Shiras was known for his conservative views and strict interpretation of the Constitution.
One of the most controversial cases in which Shiras participated was Plessy v. Ferguson in 1896. In this case, the Court ruled in a 7-1 decision that racial segregation was constitutional as long as the facilities were equal. Shiras voted with the majority, upholding the "separate but equal" doctrine that would have lasting implications for civil rights in the United States.
Shiras served on the Supreme Court until 1903 when he decided to retire. He returned to Pittsburgh, where he continued to be involved in various legal and civic organizations. He passed away on August 2, 1924, leaving behind a legacy of upholding the principles of the Constitution and the rule of law.
George Shiras Jr. was married and had a son named George Shiras III. His family provided him with love and support throughout his career, and his son would go on to have a successful legal career of his own.
George Shiras Jr. was a dedicated jurist who served on the United States Supreme Court with distinction. His conservative views and strict interpretation of the Constitution left a lasting impact on American jurisprudence. Despite the controversial ruling in Plessy v. Ferguson, Shiras remained committed to upholding the principles of the law and serving justice.
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