Curtis R. Tucker facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Curtis R. Tucker Sr.
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| Member of the California State Assembly from the 50th district |
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| In office December 2, 1974 - October 9, 1988 |
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| Preceded by | Joseph B. Montoya |
| Succeeded by | Curtis R. Tucker Jr. |
| Personal details | |
| Born | March 26, 1918 Union, Louisiana |
| Died | October 10, 1988 (aged 70) |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Lorraine Ann Hohl |
| Children | 4 including Curtis R. Tucker Jr. |
| Military service | |
| Branch/service |  United States Army |
| Battles/wars | World War II Korean War |
Curtis R. Tucker Sr. (born March 26, 1918 – died October 10, 1988) was an important American politician from California. He was a member of the Democratic Party. Mr. Tucker served in the California State Assembly for the 50th district. He held this position from 1974 until he passed away in 1988. His son, Curtis R. Tucker Jr., took over his seat in the Assembly.
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Curtis Tucker's Early Life and Military Service
Curtis R. Tucker Sr. was born on March 26, 1918, in Union, Louisiana. He served in the United States Army during two major wars. During World War II, he was part of the Medical Corps. While in the military, he even studied at the University of Florence in Italy.
He also served during the Korean War. Later, he became an instructor at West Point. After serving 23 years in the military, Mr. Tucker began working for the Los Angeles Health Department.
Curtis Tucker's Political Journey
In 1972, Curtis Tucker made history in Inglewood. He became the first African-American person elected to the Inglewood City Council. He was so popular that he was re-elected in 1973 with 66% of the votes.
Serving in the California State Assembly
In 1974, Tucker was elected to the California State Assembly. He served there until his death in 1988. During his time, he focused on health policy and racial equality. He even chaired the Assembly Health Committee.
Working for Equality and Justice
Mr. Tucker worked hard to promote fairness for all people. He supported racial and gender equality. He also fought for justice for poor and under-represented communities. He was a member of the Legislative Black Caucus.
One of his biggest achievements was working with future Congresswoman Maxine Waters. Together, they helped to stop investments in Apartheid South Africa. This was a system of racial segregation and discrimination.
Curtis Tucker's Lasting Legacy
Curtis Tucker passed away on October 10, 1988, from complications of liver cancer. He was seeking re-election at the time. Because his name was already on the ballots, a special election was held. His son, Curtis Jr., won this election and served in the Assembly until 1996.
People in his district sometimes called him "the Godfather" or the "elder statesman." This showed their respect for his long service.
Because of his important work on health issues, a health center was named after him. The Curtis R. Tucker Health Center is located in Inglewood.
