John Paul Stevens was an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, serving from 1975 to 2010. Appointed by President Gerald Ford, he was known for his thoughtful and independent approach to the law. Stevens often emphasized the importance of civil liberties and was a strong advocate for the protection of individual rights. Throughout his tenure, Stevens contributed to significant rulings on various issues, including abortion rights, affirmative action, and the death penalty. He was recognized for his ability to build consensus among his colleagues and for his commitment to justice, making him a respected figure in American legal history.