Notable People: Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr.

Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. (1841-1935) was an influential American jurist and Supreme Court Justice known for his pragmatic approach to the law. Appointed to the Supreme Court in 1902, he served for nearly 30 years, shaping key legal doctrines with his opinions on free speech, individual rights, and the role of government. Holmes is famous for the phrase "clear and present danger," which articulated limits on free speech, emphasizing that freedom must be balanced with societal needs. His thoughtful and often progressive views left a lasting impact on American jurisprudence and the interpretation of the Constitution.