Arthur J. Hubbard Sr. facts for kids

Arthur J. Hubbard Sr. was an important leader from Arizona. He was born on January 23, 1912, and lived until February 7, 2014. He is best known for two big things: he was a Navajo Code Talker instructor during World War II, and he was the first Native American to become a state senator in Arizona.

Arthur Hubbard's Early Life

Arthur Hubbard was born in 1912 in a place called Topawa, Arizona. This was just a few weeks before Arizona officially became a state! He grew up in Ganado, Arizona, which is part of the Navajo Nation. Later, he went to college at the University of Arizona. Besides his studies, Arthur was also a talented musician. He played the trombone and sang, leading a band for the Navajo tribe.

Serving His Country: A Code Talker Instructor

From 1939 to 1945, Arthur Hubbard bravely served in the U.S. Marine Corps. This was during World War II. He had a very special and secret job: he was a Navajo Code Talker instructor.

What is a Code Talker?

Code Talkers were Native American Marines, mostly Navajo, who used their native language to send secret messages during the war. Their language was so complex that enemies could not understand it. This made it a perfect code! Arthur Hubbard taught over 200 men how to use the Navajo language to send these important messages. His work helped save many lives and was a big part of the war effort.

A Leader for His Community

After his time in the military, Arthur Hubbard continued to serve his community. He was appointed as the Director of Indian Development District of Arizona. This job helped improve life for Native American communities in Arizona.

First Native American State Senator

In 1972, Arthur Hubbard made history. He became a state senator in Arizona. This meant he was the first Native American to hold this important position in the Arizona State Legislature. He served for 12 years, until 1984. As a senator, he worked to make laws and represent the people of Arizona.

Helping His People and Sharing Culture

Arthur Hubbard also worked as an advisor on water rights for the Tohono Oʼodham Nation. Water rights are very important for communities, especially in dry areas like Arizona. He also taught Navajo culture and language at Arizona State University.

He played a key role in starting Diné College. This college was originally called Navajo Community College. It was the very first college built within the Navajo Nation, offering education close to home for Navajo students.

Awards and Legacy

Arthur Hubbard received many honors for his service and dedication.

• He was added to the Arizona Veterans Hall of Fame.
• He was also inducted into the Arizona Democratic Party Hall of Fame.
• In 2000, he received the Navajo Code Talker Congressional Silver Medal. This was a special award from the United States government to honor his work as a Code Talker.

Arthur J. Hubbard Sr. passed away on February 7, 2014, at the age of 102. To honor him, flags across the Navajo Nation were flown at half-staff. His life showed great dedication to his country and his people.