Opening Arguments

The Surprising History of the Supreme Court Footnote

Sep 16, 2024
Peter Charles Hoffer, Distinguished Research Professor of History at the University of Georgia, dives into the quirky world of Supreme Court footnotes. He shares how footnotes influence legal precedent and public perceptions of court decisions. The discussion humorously touches on the challenges of reading and even ADHD, while also critiquing Justice Alito's historical interpretations. Hoffer argues for the vital role of trained historians in jurisprudence, underscoring how footnotes shape legal narratives and impact landmark rulings.
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