Final answer:
The nomination of Justice Clarence Thomas was significant for being the second African American Justice, his conservative values, and the controversy surrounding his confirmation hearings.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nomination of Justice Clarence Thomas was significant for several reasons:
- First African American Justice: Justice Thomas was the second African American to serve on the Supreme Court, following Justice Thurgood Marshall.
- Conservative Values: President Bush nominated Justice Thomas as a strong social conservative, which was a departure from previous African American Justices who were more ideologically aligned with liberal policies.
- Confirmation Hearings Controversy: Justice Thomas survived a contentious confirmation process where he was accused of sexual harassment by Anita Hill. This controversy shed light on issues of sexual harassment in the workplace and sparked a national conversation on the topic.