William Rehnquist: Chief Justice of the United States Dies at 80

William Rehnquist was the 16th Chief Justice of the United States, serving from 1986 to 2005. Born on October 1, 1924, in Milwaukee, he graduated first in his class at Stanford Law School.

President Nixon appointed him an associate justice in 1972, and President Reagan elevated him to Chief Justice. His court moved toward federalism and limited federal power, and he presided over the Senate impeachment trial of President Clinton in 1999. He authored a book about the Court's history.

Rehnquist was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in October 2004 and continued working through much of 2005. He died at his home in Arlington, Virginia, on September 3, 2005, at age 80.

Achievements: Chief Justice of the United States (1986-2005), Associate Justice (1972-1986).

Birth: October 1, 1924 - Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Profession: Jurist.

Interesting Facts: He wore a robe with gold stripes inspired by a Gilbert and Sullivan opera.