Boce W. Barlow Jr. facts for kids
Boce William Barlow Jr. (born August 8, 1915 – died January 31, 2005) was a very important person in Connecticut history. He made history by becoming the first African-American judge in Connecticut in 1957. Later, in 1966, he was also the first African-American to be elected to the Connecticut State Senate.
Early Life and Education
Boce William Barlow Jr. was born in Americus, Georgia, in 1915. When he was just one year old, his family moved to Hartford, Connecticut. He attended Hartford High School and later went to Howard University. He was a great student and even became class president, graduating in 1939.
Service and Law Career
After college, Barlow served in World War II. He was part of a special unit for African-American soldiers. After the war, he continued his education at Harvard Law School. He was one of only four African-American students in his class there.
A Leader for Equal Rights
Like his father, Boce Barlow Jr. was very involved in politics, specifically with the Democratic Party. His dedication led him to win an election for the state senate in 1966. He served two terms, working hard for the people of Connecticut.
Throughout his career, Barlow continued to be a leader. He held many important positions in the state government. In all his roles, he worked to make sure everyone had fair and equal opportunities. He truly helped advance the cause of equal rights for all people.
See also
- Boce W. Barlow Jr. House
- List of African-American jurists
- List of first minority male lawyers and judges in Connecticut
