Freeman Bosley Jr. facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Freeman Bosley Jr.
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| 43rd Mayor of St. Louis | |
| In office April 20, 1993 – April 15, 1997 |
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| Preceded by | Vincent C. Schoemehl |
| Succeeded by | Clarence Harmon |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 20, 1954 St. Louis, Missouri, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Darlynn |
| Children | 2 |
Freeman R. Bosley Jr. (born July 20, 1954, in St. Louis, Missouri) is an American politician. He served as the 43rd mayor of St. Louis from 1993 to 1997. He was also the city's first African-American mayor.
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Early Life and Education
Freeman Bosley Jr. finished Central High School in 1972. He then went to Saint Louis University. He earned two degrees from the university in 1976. These were in Urban Affairs and Political Science.
He continued his studies at Saint Louis University School of Law. In 1979, he received his law degree, called a Juris Doctor. While he was a student, Bosley was a leader in student groups. He was president of the Black Student Alliance and the Black-American Law Students Association. These groups were important during the Civil Rights Movement.
Political Career Highlights
After law school, Bosley worked as a staff attorney. He helped people with issues related to consumer affairs and utility companies. He also worked at a law firm.
Bosley made history as the first African-American St. Louis Circuit Clerk. He held this important position for ten years. Later, he became a Democratic Committeeman for the 3rd Ward. He then became the chairman of the St. Louis City Democratic Central Association. This made him the first African-American chairman of the Democratic Party in St. Louis City.
Becoming Mayor of St. Louis
On April 6, 1993, Freeman Bosley Jr. became the first African-American mayor of St. Louis. He won the election with a large number of votes.
During his time as mayor, he faced big challenges. He helped the city during the Great Flood of 1993. He also played a role in helping Trans World Airlines with a large financial plan. Mayor Bosley also helped bring the Los Angeles Rams football team to St. Louis from Anaheim, California. Two property tax increases were approved during his time in office.
Later Elections
Bosley ran for re-election in 1997 but was defeated by Clarence Harmon. In 2001, he ran for mayor again in the Democratic Primary. However, he was defeated by Francis Slay.
Attorney License Information
Freeman Bosley Jr. also had a law office in St. Louis. In September 2014, his license to practice law was temporarily suspended. This happened because he did not follow certain rules for attorneys. His license was later restored in December 2016.
