Anna Simms Banks facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Anna B. Simms Banks
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born | 1862 Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.
|
| Died | 1923 (aged 60–61) Winchester, Kentucky, U.S.
|
| Occupation | Suffragist, orator, politician |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse(s) | William Webb Banks |
| Parent(s) | Isabella and Marcus (or Marquis) Simms |
Anna "Annie" Simms Banks (1862–1923) was an important American teacher and political leader. She was born in Brandenburg, Kentucky. Anna Banks made history on March 3, 1920. She became the first African-American woman chosen as a delegate for the Republican Convention in Kentucky. This was for the 7th Congressional District. At this time, women in Kentucky could vote for president. However, they did not yet have the right to vote in all elections. Banks was also chosen to be on the Rules Committee. She taught school in Louisville. Later, she passed away in Winchester, Kentucky.
Early Life and Family
Anna Simms Banks was born in Brandenburg, Kentucky. Her mother, Isabelle, worked as a domestic servant. Her father, Marquis Simms, was a barber. Anna became a schoolteacher in Louisville.
On July 10, 1906, she married William Webb Banks. He was a newspaper writer. William wrote for both white and African-American newspapers. He was very active in politics. He worked to gain civil rights for African Americans.
Political Work and Achievements
In 1913, Anna traveled to New York City and Washington D.C. She went with her husband. He was serving as Kentucky Commissioner for the Emancipation Exposition. This trip helped her learn about politics. She saw how political events worked.
Later, Anna helped organize hospital workers in Winchester. These workers were African-American. She worked to improve their conditions.
After being elected as a delegate, Anna shared her hopes. She said, "We are just beginning to open our eyes in politics." She believed African-American women would soon have a big impact. She promised to do her part for the Republican Party.
Anna Banks died three years later in Winchester. She passed away from pneumonia in 1923. Her obituary called her a "prominent race leader." This showed how important she was. Her husband died two years later. He was buried next to her.
See Also
In Spanish: Anna Simms Banks para niños
