How Brandeis' Louisville roots shaped his legacy

In a column in Louisville's Courier-Journal, Professor Laura Rothstein explores the ways Louis D. Brandeis' Louisville roots shaped his legacy.

"Brandeis was described as a pragmatic idealist who believed that the dignity and independence of individuals would enable them to do the hard work required to sustain freedom in a democratic society," Rothstein writes.

"The value of service is rooted in his first memory – his mother serving food to Union soldiers on his front yard in Louisville. He took great satisfaction in giving back, and he became known as the “people’s attorney” for his refusal to accept any compensation for work on public interest cases. The legal profession in Louisville reflects that philosophy with a strong commitment to public service."

June 1 is the centennial anniversary of Brandeis' confirmation to the Supreme Court.

Read the full column here.