As I mentioned, things were particularly hard during the Depression. My paternal grandfather was frequently out of work, and the family was evicted from their home.

I know that some poor immigrants from that era had unrealistic expectations and were disappointed, but I don't think my grandparents were disappointed at all, even though they experienced some very hard times during the Great Depression.

I think that the legitimacy of the court would be undermined in any case if the court made a decision based on its perception of public opinion.

I am especially indebted to a 10th grade English teacher who encouraged me to read great works of literature.

My grandparents came worked hard, and I believe they never regretted their decision to come here and make a new start.

I can still remember the day, as an assistant U.S. attorney, when I stood up in court for the first time and I proudly said, "My name is Samuel Alito and I represent the United States in this court." It was a great honor for me to have the United States as my client during all of those years.

The most important quality for a judge is open- mindedness to the arguments.