Noah Haynes Swayne was born on July 7, 1804, in Virginia. He was the son of Joshua Swayne and Rebecca Smith Swayne. As a young man, Swayne was ambitious and hardworking, traits that would serve him well throughout his life.
Swayne attended college at the University of Virginia, where he excelled academically. After graduating, he went on to study law and was admitted to the Virginia bar in 1823. Swayne then moved to Ohio, where he started a successful private practice.
Throughout his legal career, Swayne gained a reputation as a skilled and knowledgeable attorney. His dedication to his work caught the attention of President Abraham Lincoln, who nominated him to the Supreme Court in 1862. Swayne served as an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court for nearly two decades, from 1862 to 1881. During his time on the Court, Swayne made significant contributions to American jurisprudence.
Outside of his legal career, Swayne was known for his close friendships with his fellow justices. He was particularly close friends with Justice John McLean, with whom he shared a strong bond. Swayne's family life was also important to him, and he cherished the time he spent with his loved ones.
Noah Haynes Swayne's legacy as a Supreme Court justice is a lasting one. His dedication to justice and the rule of law helped shape the American legal system for generations to come. He will always be remembered as a respected and influential figure in U.S. history.
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