Brennan, William J., Jr.

Brennan, William J. (Joseph), Jr.

(1906– ) Supreme Court justice; born in Newark, N.J. He practiced labor law (1932–49) and rose through New Jersey's judicial ranks (1949–56). President Eisenhower named him to the U.S. Supreme Court (1956–90) where he was known for his support of civil and individual rights, particularly for freedom of speech.