E. Walter Miles facts for kids

Elijah Walter Miles (often known as E. Walter Miles, born May 4, 1934 – died July 8, 2020) was an important American expert. He studied politics and constitutional law. He focused on the Constitution of the United States and how the courts make decisions.

Miles worked for over 30 years at San Diego State University. He even became the head of the political science department. When he first started, he was the only Black professor there. A university librarian called him "the Godfather of Black Faculty" at SDSU. He was famous for his activism and his academic work.

Early Life and Learning

Miles was born on May 4, 1934, in Hearne, Texas. He had seven brothers and sisters.

College and Graduate School

Miles went to Prairie View A&M University. He earned his bachelor's degree in 1955. After college, he served two years as an officer in the United States Army. He even served in Korea.

Later, he went to Indiana University for graduate school. He earned a master's degree in government. Then, in 1962, he finished his PhD in government. While studying, Miles was a key activist. He worked to end racial separation in public places in Bloomington, Indiana.

A Career in Academia and Activism

After getting his PhD in 1962, Miles returned to Prairie View A&M University. He taught there for three years. He continued his activism, leading a boycott against businesses that treated people unfairly in Hempstead, Texas.

Teaching at San Diego State University

Miles then moved to the University of North Carolina. There, he helped improve housing for students off campus. Around 1966 or 1967, Miles joined the faculty at San Diego State University. He stayed there for over 30 years. At that time, he was the only Black faculty member at SDSU.

Research and Contributions

Miles's research looked at the U.S. Constitution. He also studied the United States Supreme Court and how American courts work. He helped write the 1989 book Vital Issues of the Constitution. This book was printed many times. Miles also wrote about important court cases. These included cases on slavery, voting rights, and free speech.

Miles also helped edit political science journals. He led a committee for the American Political Science Association. This committee focused on the status of Black professionals. He was also on the APSA's main board.

Community Involvement

Miles was active in his community outside of his university work. He chaired the San Diego Urban League board. He also led the San Diego chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). He was even a member of the ACLU's national board. He was appointed to the California State Board of Education.

He also shared his knowledge with the public. For example, he took part in a TV debate about affirmative action. Miles was also a strong advocate for hiring African American professors. He co-wrote an important report on this topic at SDSU.

In 2019, a university librarian named Robert Fikes, Jr. wrote a book. In his book, The Black in Crimson and Black, Fikes called Miles "The Godfather of Black Faculty" at SDSU. This shows how important Miles was to the university.

Miles retired in 1998. He passed away on July 8, 2020.