Retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, the first woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court, passed away on Friday at the age of 93. O'Connor, known for her moderate conservatism and tenacious spirit, was nominated by President Ronald Reagan in 1981, breaking 191 years of male exclusivity on the Court. Born and raised on an Arizona ranch, O'Connor quickly established herself as a hard worker and influential figure on the bench.

O'Connor's impact on the Court was most evident in cases involving abortion, a deeply divisive issue. In 1989, she refused to join four other justices in reversing the landmark Roe v. Wade decision that guaranteed women the constitutional right to abortion. And in 1992, she played a crucial role in the majority decision of Planned Parenthood v. Casey, reaffirming the core holding of Roe v. Wade. O'Connor's commitment to defining the liberty of all, rather than imposing her own moral code, defined her approach to these cases.

However, in more recent years, a more conservative Court overturned both Roe v. Wade and Casey, with Justice Samuel Alito writing the opinion. Alito took O'Connor's place on the Court after her retirement in 2006. Throughout her tenure, Justice O'Connor was regarded with fondness by her colleagues, including Justice Clarence Thomas, who praised her as an outstanding and civil colleague.

O'Connor's impact extended beyond her time on the bench. She played a pivotal role in the resolution of the disputed 2000 presidential election, siding with the majority in favor of George W. Bush over Al Gore. O'Connor was also known for her support of states in disputes with the federal government and her tendency to side with police in cases involving claims of rights violations.

In her retirement, O'Connor remained active in government and other endeavors. She served as a judge on several federal appeals courts, advocated for judicial independence, and joined the Iraq Study Group. O'Connor also became an author, with a children's book, and made appearances on television shows like David Letterman's late-night program and Jon Stewart's "Daily Show."

Throughout her career, O'Connor faced and overcame many challenges as a woman in the legal profession. As a top-ranked graduate of Stanford Law School in the 1950s, she encountered significant barriers in finding employment at large law firms that did not hire women. However, her early experiences shaped her tenacity and drive for success.

O'Connor's legacy as a trailblazer and powerful woman in American history is undeniable. She shattered barriers, paved the way for more women to serve on the Supreme Court, and inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams. Her impact on the Court and her dedication to defining and preserving individual liberties will be remembered for generations to come.