D. Hamilton Jackson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
David Hamilton Jackson
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| Born | September 28, 1884 Estate East Hill, St. Croix, Danish West Indies
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| Died | May 30, 1946 (aged 61) |
| Occupation | Educator, Bookkeeper, Newspaper Editor, Lawyer, Judge, Councilman |
| Known for | Crucian Leader of Civil Rights Movement, Labor Movement Organizer |
David Hamilton Jackson (born September 28, 1884 – died May 30, 1946) was a brave leader in the Danish West Indies. These islands later became the United States Virgin Islands. Jackson fought for important changes, like more civil rights and better conditions for workers. He also asked for freedom of the press, which means people can publish newspapers without strict rules. He even started the islands' first ever group for workers. When the islands became part of America in 1917, he worked hard to get US citizenship for everyone living there.
Contents
Who Was David Hamilton Jackson?
David Hamilton Jackson was a key figure in the history of the U.S. Virgin Islands. He helped bring many important changes to the islands. He worked to improve the lives of ordinary people.
Early Life and Important Changes
Jackson started his career as a teacher. Later, he worked as a bookkeeper and a clerk. But he soon became very involved in the politics of the Danish West Indies.
He traveled all the way to Denmark. There, he successfully asked for a very old law to be removed. This law, from 1779, stopped independent newspapers. It also allowed the government to strictly control everything that was published.
Starting a Free Newspaper
When Jackson came back home, he started the first free newspaper. It was called The Herald. This was a huge step for freedom of speech on the islands.
The day this newspaper started, November 1, is still celebrated today. It is a special public holiday in the U.S. Virgin Islands. It's known as "Liberty Day", D. Hamilton Jackson Day, or Bull and Bread Day.
Forming the First Workers' Union
In 1913, David Hamilton Jackson worked with Ralph Bough. Together, they created the first workers' union in the Danish West Indies. It was called the St. Croix Labor Union. This union helped workers get better pay and working conditions.
Jackson also pushed for the islands to become part of America. He believed this would bring more freedom and opportunities. After he visited Denmark and explained his ideas, many Danish leaders agreed. They decided that Danish rule over the islands should end.
A Lasting Legacy
David Hamilton Jackson's work made a big difference. He is remembered as a hero who fought for justice and rights. A neighborhood in Christiansted is named after him. This shows how much he is respected for his contributions.
See also
- 1878 St. Croix Labor Riots
