One of the most important jurist in the early-19th century United States, Thomas Carter Ruffin served as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of
North Carolina from 1833 until 1852.  His renown stems largely from his opinion in State v. Mann, a case that set boundaries regarding the relationship between master and slave.  He was also a powerful exponent of judicial independence.  To learn more, follow this link to northcarolinahistory.org.