Who was the first female justice on the United States Supreme Court?

The first female justice on the United States Supreme Court was Sandra Day O'Connor. She was appointed by President Ronald Reagan and took her seat on the Court in 1981. Her appointment was significant as it marked a historic moment in the U.S. judiciary, breaking the gender barrier that had previously existed in the highest court of the land. O'Connor served for nearly 25 years, retiring in 2006, and was known for her pragmatic approach to law, often being a key swing vote in important cases. Her presence on the Supreme Court paved the way for future female justices, contributing to the ongoing conversation about gender equality in all spheres, including the judiciary. Her legacy is not only as a trailblazer for women in law but also for her influential role in shaping significant legal precedents during her tenure.