Chris Mercer (activist) facts for kids

Christopher Columbus "C.C." Mercer (born March 27, 1924 – died November 20, 2012) was an important African-American lawyer from Arkansas. He was one of the "six pioneers" who helped integrate, or open up, the University of Arkansas Law School to all students. As a lawyer, he worked for the NAACP. He advised Daisy Bates, who led the brave efforts of the Little Rock Nine to integrate Little Rock Central High School.

A Champion for Justice

Early Life and Education

C.C. Mercer was born in 1924 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. He went to Merrill High School and then to AM&N College. After college, he worked as a principal at Conway Training School in Menifee, Arkansas.

Breaking Barriers in Law

In 1949, Mercer and George W. B. Haley made history. They entered the University of Arkansas Law School. This was just one year after Silas Herbert Hunt became the first Black student at a white university in the South since the Reconstruction era.

Mercer was one of six pioneering Black students at the law school. Unlike the others, he did not serve in World War II. This meant he often had to take time off from school. He worked different jobs, like teaching math at Carver High School, to pay for his education. In 1954, Mercer passed the bar exam with the highest score in the entire state!

A Dedicated Lawyer

C.C. Mercer became the first African American in the South to serve as a deputy state prosecutor. This was a very important role. He practiced law for 58 years, helping many people. He often took cases for clients who could not afford to pay him.

Helping the Little Rock Nine

In 1957, Little Rock Central High School was integrated. This was a huge moment in the Civil Rights Movement. Mercer played a key role by advising Daisy Bates. She was the leader who guided the nine Black students who bravely entered the school.

C.C. Mercer passed away on November 20, 2012, at the age of 88. He left behind a legacy of fighting for justice and equality.