Samuel Nelson

1792–1873

Biography

Samuel Nelson was an American jurist who served as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court from 1845 to 1872. Born in New York, Nelson had a distinguished legal career that began in the New York state courts before his appointment to the nation's highest tribunal. During his tenure on the Supreme Court, he participated in several landmark cases and was known for his moderate positions on constitutional matters, particularly regarding federal versus state powers.