Albert DeSilver facts for kids

Albert DeSilver (born August 27, 1888 – died December 7, 1924) was a very important person who helped start the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). This group works to protect the rights and freedoms of everyone in the United States.

Who Was Albert DeSilver?

Albert DeSilver was a lawyer who cared deeply about fairness and freedom for all people. He believed that everyone should have their rights protected, especially during difficult times.

Early Life and Education

Albert DeSilver went to Yale and finished in 1910. While he was there, he was part of a special group called Skull and Bones. After Yale, he studied law at Columbia Law School, finishing in 1913. He even worked on the Columbia Law Review, which is a publication about legal topics.

Standing Up for Freedom

Even though he was becoming a successful lawyer, Albert DeSilver decided to do something different in 1918. He left his law job to help start a group called the National Civil Liberties Bureau. This group later became known as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).

He wanted to spend all his time defending people who were being treated unfairly. During World War I, new laws like the Espionage Act of 1917 and the Sedition Act of 1918 made it hard for some people to speak freely. Albert DeSilver helped people who were arrested for speaking their minds. He even used his own money to help pay for people to get out of jail when they were accused of speaking against the government. He especially helped conscientious objectors, who were people who refused to fight in the war because of their beliefs.

What is the ACLU?

The ACLU is a group that works to defend and preserve the rights and liberties guaranteed to every person in the United States by the Constitution and laws of the country. They help make sure that people's freedom of speech, privacy, and equal treatment are protected.

A Lasting Impact

When the ACLU officially started in 1920, Albert DeSilver became an Associate Director. He worked hard on many things, like defending people in court, teaching the public about their rights, and talking to lawmakers to change unfair rules.

Albert DeSilver was also very generous. He gave more than half of the money the ACLU needed to operate each year. Sadly, he passed away at the age of 36 in 1924. After he died, his wife, Margaret, continued to give money to the ACLU every year in his name. His dedication helped build a strong organization that continues to fight for civil liberties today.