Final answer:
Sonia Sotomayor was appointed to the U.S. Court of Appeals in 1998 by President Bill Clinton and later nominated to the U.S. Supreme Court by President Barack Obama in 2009.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sonia Sotomayor's journey to becoming the first Latina Supreme Court Justice in U.S. history was marked by a series of notable appointments. Prior to her elevation to the Supreme Court, President Bill Clinton appointed Sotomayor to the U.S. Court of Appeals in 1998. This initial judicial appointment to the Second Circuit Court of Appeals in New York provided her with a platform to showcase her legal acumen and commitment to justice.
It was, however, under the administration of President Barack Obama that Sotomayor achieved a historic milestone. In 2009, President Obama nominated her to serve as a Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, recognizing her distinguished career and qualifications. Her nomination was met with both acclaim and scrutiny, reflecting the significance of the appointment.
Sotomayor's confirmation by the Senate in the same year solidified her place in history, making her the first Latina to ascend to the highest court in the land. Her confirmation not only underscored her legal expertise but also marked a crucial moment of diversity and representation in the judiciary. As a Supreme Court Justice, Sotomayor has continued to be an influential and respected figure, contributing to key legal decisions and serving as an inspiration for those seeking diversity and inclusion in the legal profession.
Sotomayor's journey from the U.S. Court of Appeals to the Supreme Court is a testament to her remarkable career, reflecting the recognition of her legal prowess and the breaking of barriers for underrepresented communities in the highest echelons of the U.S. justice system.