Thurgood Marshall's swearing-in as the first African-American justice of the U.S. Supreme Court marked a historic milestone in American jurisprudence and civil rights. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1908, Marshall had a groundbreaking legal career, earning his law degree from Howard University and becoming a prominent civil rights lawyer. Before his Supreme Court appointment, he served as the chief counsel for the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People), where he successfully argued critical cases before the Supreme Court that challenged racial segregation and discrimination.

The ceremony took place in Washington, D.C., under the administration of President Lyndon B. Johnson, who nominated Marshall to the position. Johnson's administration was marked by a commitment to civil rights, and Marshall's appointment was seen as a reflection of that commitment. During the swearing-in ceremony, Marshall took an oath administered by Chief Justice Earl Warren. His presence on the Supreme Court was emblematic of the changing legal landscape in the United States during the Civil Rights Movement, providing hope and encouragement to many who fought for equality.

Throughout his tenure on the Court, which lasted until 1991, Marshall championed issues of social justice and civil rights. He was known for his advocacy for the rights of individuals, particularly in cases involving discrimination and affirmative action. His rulings often favored the expansion of civil liberties, and he became a pivotal figure in shaping the Court's stance on issues affecting marginalized communities. Marshall's appointment not only transformed the Supreme Court but also inspired generations of African American lawyers and activists striving for equality within the justice system.