Clarence Thomas

Easton Press Clarence Thomas books

Resurrection: The Confirmation of Clarence Thomas - by John C. Danforth - signed by author first edition - 1994

My Grandfather's Son - signed first edition - 2007

 

 

Justice Clarence Thomas biography

Clarence Thomas, a prominent figure in American jurisprudence, was born on June 23, 1948, in Pin Point, Georgia. Raised in poverty, Thomas grew up in a rural community deeply rooted in the segregated South. Despite facing significant challenges, he excelled academically and attended the College of the Holy Cross in Massachusetts, where he became involved in civil rights activism. After college, Thomas earned his law degree from Yale Law School in 1974. His early legal career included roles in various government agencies and private practice. In 1981, President Ronald Reagan appointed him Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Education, and in 1982, he became the Chairman of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Thomas's tenure at the EEOC garnered attention for his conservative approach to civil rights enforcement, which drew praise. In 1991, President George H.W. Bush nominated him to the United States Supreme Court to fill the vacancy left by Justice Thurgood Marshall's retirement. Thomas was confirmed by the Senate and assumed his seat on the Supreme Court on October 23, 1991.

As a Supreme Court Justice, Thomas is known for his originalist and textualist approach to constitutional interpretation, emphasizing a strict adherence to the text and original meaning of the Constitution. He has been a consistent conservative voice on the Court, often dissenting from liberal majority opinions and advocating for limited government intervention. Throughout his tenure, Thomas has authored numerous significant opinions on issues ranging from affirmative action to religious freedom and the Second Amendment. His jurisprudence is characterized by a commitment to principles of individual liberty and limited judicial activism.

Beyond his judicial duties, Thomas is also recognized for his eloquent writing and speeches on issues of race, law, and society. Despite his quiet demeanor on the bench, he remains a deeply influential figure in American legal and political discourse. Clarence Thomas's legacy is one of resilience, intellect, and unwavering dedication to his principles. As the second African American to serve on the Supreme Court, he has left an indelible mark on the nation's highest court and continues to shape the course of American jurisprudence.

 

 

My Grandfather's Son

My Grandfather's Son is an autobiographical memoir offering a poignant and introspective glimpse into his life journey. Published in 2007, the memoir traces Thomas's humble beginnings in segregated Georgia, his struggles with poverty, and his eventual rise to prominence on the nation's highest court.

The memoir delves into Thomas's complex relationship with his grandfather, who played a significant role in shaping his character and values. Thomas vividly recounts the lessons learned from his grandfather's stern yet loving guidance, as well as the profound impact of his grandfather's unwavering faith and principles. Through poignant anecdotes and reflections, Thomas explores the enduring influence of his grandfather's wisdom and the deep sense of responsibility instilled in him from a young age.

My Grandfather's Son also provides insight into Thomas's experiences with racial discrimination and the challenges he faced as an African American navigating the legal profession and society at large. Thomas candidly addresses the controversy surrounding his confirmation hearings, including the accusations of sexual harassment leveled against him by Anita Hill. Through his memoir, Thomas offers readers a deeply personal and compelling narrative of resilience, faith, and the pursuit of justice in the face of adversity.

Resurrection: The Confirmation of Clarence Thomas

Resurrection: The Confirmation of Clarence Thomas delves into one of the most controversial and consequential Supreme Court confirmation hearings in American history. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Danforth, a former U.S. Senator intimately involved in the process, offers a gripping account of Clarence Thomas's journey to the nation's highest court. With riveting detail, Danforth examines the intense political battles, the complexities of race and gender, and the enduring impact of Thomas's confirmation on the judiciary and American society. Resurrection is a compelling narrative that sheds new light on a pivotal moment in American politics and jurisprudence.

Clarence Thomas quotes

"I don't believe in quotas. America was founded on a philosophy of individual rights, not group rights."
"I'd rather die than withdraw from the process."
"The worst thing that can happen to you in this business is to have a hit. The second worst thing is to have a failure."
"Good manners will open doors that the best education cannot."
"This is a court of law, young man, not a court of justice."