Benjamin Frank Adair facts for kids
Benjamin Frank Adair (born 1852 – died March 28, 1902) was an important lawyer and politician. He served in the government of Arkansas in 1891, representing an area called Pulaski County.
He was one of the African American leaders who served in the Arkansas state government during that time. His picture was even shown in a special photo collection in The Freeman newspaper. Benjamin Frank Adair was a member of the Democratic Party.
Early Life and Family Freedom
Benjamin Frank Adair's father had the same name. His father helped their family become free. They moved to Oberlin, Ohio because a law in Arkansas made it very hard for free African Americans to live there. This law was called the Arkansas's Free Negro Expulsion Act of 1859. Moving to Ohio meant his family could live in freedom.
His Work in Government
As a lawyer, Benjamin Frank Adair understood laws and how government worked. When he became a state legislator in Arkansas, he helped make decisions for the people of his county. This was an important role, especially for African American leaders after the Civil War.
Later Life
Benjamin Frank Adair passed away on March 28, 1902. He was suspected to have died from heart problems.