Justice Sandra Day O'Connor was the first woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court, appointed by President Ronald Reagan in 1981. She played a crucial role in many landmark decisions, often serving as a swing vote in important cases that shaped American law. O'Connor was known for her pragmatic approach to the law, emphasizing the importance of individual rights and the need for compromise. After retiring from the Supreme Court in 2006, she continued to advocate for civic education and engagement, founding the O'Connor Institute to promote these values in society.