Arthur Earley facts for kids

Arthur Franklin Earley (born September 4, 1925 – died June 9, 1981) was an important American politician. He was a member of the Republican Party. From 1979 to 1981, he served in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. This is like being a representative for your local area in the state government.

Arthur Earley made history as the first African American elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from his district, the 159th. He was also one of the first African Americans to join the United States Marine Corps. Later, he helped start a special group called the Montford Point Marine Association.

Early Life and Education

Arthur Earley was born in Lynchburg, Virginia. He went to college at Howard University. He also studied law at Temple University Law School.

During World War II, from 1943 to 1946, Earley served in the United States Marine Corps. He was part of a group of brave African Americans who broke barriers by joining the Marines.

In 1965, Arthur Earley helped create the Montford Point Marine Association. This group works to remember the legacy of the first African Americans who served in the U.S. Marine Corps. In 1999, after he passed away, Earley was honored and added to the Montford Point Marine Association Hall of Fame.

His Career in Public Service

Before becoming a state representative, Arthur Earley worked as a lawyer. He was an assistant district attorney for Delaware County, Pennsylvania. He held this job from 1971 to 1978. A district attorney is a lawyer who represents the government in court cases.

In 1979, Earley was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. He represented the 159th district. He served two terms, from 1979 to 1981. In this role, he helped make laws for the state of Pennsylvania.

Arthur Earley was also a member of several important groups. These included the NAACP, which works for civil rights. He was also part of legal fraternities like Phi Alpha Delta.

He passed away in 1981 while still in office. After his death, Robert C. Wright took his place in the House of Representatives.