Frank Peratrovich facts for kids

Frank Peratrovich was an important leader from Alaska. He was a successful businessman and a politician who helped shape Alaska's government. He lived from 1895 to 1984.

Frank Peratrovich's Early Life and Schooling

Frank Peratrovich was born in Klawock, Alaska. His family had both Tlingit and Serbian roots. During World War II, he served in the United States Navy.

He went to college at the Haskell Indian Nations University. This school is located in Lawrence, Kansas. He also studied at Capitol Business College in Portland, Oregon.

Frank Peratrovich's Career in Business and Politics

After college, Frank Peratrovich worked as an accountant. He spent several years working in Oregon. Later, he moved back to his hometown of Klawock, Alaska. There, he opened his own business called the Klawock Cash Store.

Peratrovich also became involved in politics. He served as the mayor of Klawock. He was a member of the Democratic Party.

He became a lawmaker for Alaska. From 1945 to 1946, he was part of the Alaska Territorial House of Representatives. He then served in the Alaska Territorial Senate. He was a senator from 1947 to 1951 and again from 1957 to 1959.

In 1955, Peratrovich helped create Alaska's first Constitution. This was a very important job. After Alaska became a state, he continued to serve. He was a member of the Alaska Senate from 1959 to 1967. Later, he served in the Alaska House of Representatives from 1969 to 1973.

In 1973, the University of Alaska Anchorage honored him. They gave him a special degree for his public service.

Frank Peratrovich's Family Life

Frank Peratrovich had a brother named Roy Peratrovich. Roy was married to Elizabeth Peratrovich. Elizabeth was a famous Native leader. She worked hard to pass the Anti-discrimination Act of 1945 in Alaska. This law helped make sure everyone was treated fairly.

Frank Peratrovich passed away in 1984. He was 88 years old. He died at the Ketchikan Pioneer Home in Ketchikan, Alaska.