Today in Supreme Court History: February 14, 1845

2/14/1845: Justice Samuel Nelson takes judicial oath.

Justice Samuel Nelson

Comments

[Dan Schiavetta]

He wrote the original (and wise) "hands-off" opinion in Dred Scott, relying on procedural grounds. Taney took over and wrote the disastrous white-supremacy decision. What was he thinking? Was he getting senile? (He was 80, at a time when most adults lived to 55.)

[QuantumBoxCat]

No.

Samuel Nelson was confirmed by the Senate on February 14, 1845. He took the oath of office on February 27, 1845.

[Dan Schiavetta]

Did Josh make the same mistake last time?

[Rev. Arthur L. Kirkland]

A Noble Prize for achievement in identifying error in Today in Supreme Court HIstory is awarded to QuantumBoxCat.

Using ostensible civility standards for partisan censorship instead of devoting attention to accuracy standards has consequences. Quite frequently, as the roster of Noble Prize awardees indicates.

[Jimmy the Dane]

I think there is an excellent opportunity here to hold a "fill in the blank" caption contest for that photo....

[Dan Schiavetta]

He looks like he’s suppressing a fart.