Hugo Black, a significant figure in American jurisprudence, served as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1937 to 1971. Born in 1886 in Alabama, he began his career in law and politics, initially serving as a state senator and later a U.S. Senator. During his time in the Senate, he was known for his commitment to the New Deal policies under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, which aimed at economic recovery during the Great Depression. Black's appointment to the Supreme Court marked a period of transformation in his views, especially regarding civil liberties. He became a strong proponent of the First Amendment, advocating for freedom of speech and the press. His judicial philosophy often emphasized the protection of individual rights against government infringement, which had a lasting impact on American constitutional law. Despite facing controversy during his career, particularly regarding his past association with the Ku Klux Klan, Black worked tirelessly to reform and amend civil rights issues through his rulings. He believed in the importance of equality before the law, contributing to landmark decisions that advanced civil liberties and shaped the legal landscape of the United States. Hugo Black, born in 1886 in Alabama, was a prominent Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1937 to 1971. He began his career as a lawyer and politician, initially serving in the state legislature and then as a U.S. Senator. His early political life was marked by staunch support for President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal policies, reflecting his commitment to economic recovery and reform during the Great Depression. Once on the Supreme Court, Black's judicial philosophy evolved, and he became a vigorous advocate for civil liberties. He strongly supported the principles of the First Amendment and worked to ensure the protection of free speech and press. His focus on individual rights and government accountability left a significant legacy in American law, influencing many important rulings throughout his tenure. Although Black's past connections with the Ku Klux Klan led to controversy, he ultimately dedicated his judicial career to advancing civil rights through his decisions. He emphasized the necessity of equality under the law, resulting in landmark cases that promoted the rights and freedoms of individuals, thus shaping the constitutional framework of the United States for generations to come.