Question
Here is the question : WHAT RECORD IS HELD BY FORMER SUPREME COURT JUSTICE HARLAN F. STONE?
Option
Here is the option for the question :
- Youngest ever appointed
- Oldest ever appointed
- Only justice to serve two terms
- Only unanimous Senate confirmation
The Answer:
And, the answer for the the question is :
Explanation:
To fully capitalize on the lifetime appointment with no term limitations, each political party often nominates younger judges for the Supreme Court. As a result, it is uncommon for elder judges to be nominated, and the oldest Supreme Court justice to be appointed was Harlan F. Stone, who was 68 years old when he was chosen by Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1941. He served until 1946, when he passed away.

Former Supreme Court Justice Harlan F. Stone holds a remarkable record in the annals of American jurisprudence. He is recognized as the oldest individual ever appointed to the Supreme Court. This distinction highlights Stone’s exceptional career and his enduring impact on the highest court in the land. As we delve into the life and achievements of Harlan F. Stone, we gain insight into his contributions to the field of law and the significance of his record-breaking appointment.
Harlan Fiske Stone was born on October 11, 1872, in Chesterfield, New Hampshire. From an early age, he displayed a keen intellect and a passion for the law. After completing his education at Amherst College and Columbia Law School, Stone embarked on a legal career that would ultimately lead him to the pinnacle of the American judiciary.
Stone’s journey to the Supreme Court began with his appointment as an assistant U.S. attorney in 1897. Through his diligent work and exceptional legal skills, he quickly rose through the ranks of the legal profession. Stone’s reputation as a brilliant lawyer caught the attention of President Calvin Coolidge, who appointed him as the United States Attorney General in 1924.
As Attorney General, Stone demonstrated his commitment to upholding the rule of law and promoting justice. His tenure was marked by a dedication to enforcing antitrust laws and combating organized crime. Stone’s exceptional performance and legal expertise earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, setting the stage for his eventual appointment to the Supreme Court.
On March 2, 1925, President Coolidge nominated Stone to fill a vacancy on the Supreme Court. Stone’s nomination was met with widespread acclaim, and the Senate confirmed his appointment with a unanimous vote. At the age of 52, Stone took his seat on the bench, beginning a tenure that would span over two decades.
Stone’s tenure on the Supreme Court was characterized by his commitment to constitutional principles and his unwavering belief in judicial independence. He approached each case with a meticulous attention to detail and a dedication to preserving individual rights and liberties. Stone’s written opinions often reflected his deep understanding of legal history and his ability to parse complex legal issues.
In 1941, Stone reached a historic milestone when he was appointed Chief Justice of the United States by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. This appointment made Stone the first and only individual to have served as both Attorney General and Chief Justice. As Chief Justice, Stone continued to champion the principles of justice and fairness, leaving an indelible mark on the Court’s jurisprudence.
Stone’s record-breaking achievement as the oldest ever appointed Supreme Court justice occurred in 1941 when he was elevated to the position of Chief Justice at the age of 68. This distinction speaks not only to Stone’s longevity but also to his enduring intellectual sharpness and dedication to public service. Despite his advanced age, Stone continued to serve on the Court with vigor and intellectual acuity.
Stone’s tenure as Chief Justice was marked by landmark decisions, including West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette (1943), which protected the right of students to refuse to salute the American flag on religious grounds. Stone’s commitment to protecting individual liberties and upholding the Constitution’s principles earned him a place among the most influential Chief Justices in American history.
Harlan F. Stone’s legacy extends far beyond his record-breaking appointment as the oldest Supreme Court justice. His contributions to American jurisprudence and his unwavering commitment to justice continue to resonate today. Stone’s intellect, integrity, and dedication to the rule of law set an example for future generations of jurists and remind us of the importance of an independent judiciary in safeguarding the rights and liberties of all citizens.
former Supreme Court Justice Harlan F. Stone holds the distinction of being the oldest ever appointed to the Court. His exceptional legal career, culminating in his appointment as Chief Justice, showcased his intellectual prowess, unwavering commitment to justice, and lasting impact on American jurisprudence. Harlan F. Stone’s record-breaking appointment serves as a testament to his remarkable achievements and his enduring legacy as a champion of the rule of law.