Hugo Black Quotes

A collection of quotes by Hugo Black.

Hugo Black (1886-1971) was an American lawyer, politician, and jurist who served as an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. He was born on February 27, 1886, in Alabama. After graduating from law school in 1906, Black practiced law in Alabama and became known for his progressive views and support for labor rights.

In 1926, Black was elected as a Democrat to the United States Senate, where he served for nearly a quarter-century. As a senator, he advocated for various progressive policies and was known for his opposition to big business and his commitment to civil liberties. Black was a vocal supporter of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs during the Great Depression.

In 1937, President Roosevelt appointed Black to the Supreme Court, where he would serve for nearly 34 years. As a justice, Black was known for his strict and literal interpretation of the Constitution, often referred to as "textualism." He believed in a strong protection of individual rights, freedom of speech, and separation of church and state.

Throughout his tenure, Justice Black was involved in several influential decisions, including his majority opinion in the landmark case of Gideon v. Wainwright (1963), which established the right to counsel for all criminal defendants. He retired from the Supreme Court in 1971 and passed away on September 25, 1971, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the most notable and influential justices in American history.

Criticism of government finds sanctuary in several portions

Criticism of government finds sanctuary in several portions of the 1st Amendment. It is part of the right of free speech. It embraces freedom of the press.

Hugo Black

Freedom

It is the paradox of life that the way to miss pleasure is t

It is the paradox of life that the way to miss pleasure is to seek it first. The very first condition of lasting happiness is that a life should be full of purpose, aiming at something outside self.

Hugo Black

Happiness

When I was 40, my doctor advised me that a man in his 40s sh

When I was 40, my doctor advised me that a man in his 40s shouldn't play tennis. I heeded his advice carefully and could hardly wait until I reached 50 to start again.

Hugo Black

Sports

The Framers of the Constitution knew that free speech is the

The Framers of the Constitution knew that free speech is the friend of change and revolution. But they also knew that it is always the deadliest enemy of tyranny.

Hugo Black

Change

In my view, far from deserving condemnation for their courag

In my view, far from deserving condemnation for their courageous reporting, the New York Times, the Washington Post and other newspapers should be commended for serving the purpose that the Founding Fathers saw so clearly.

Hugo Black

History