Herbert Fielding facts for kids

Herbert Ulysses Gaillard Fielding (July 6, 1923 – August 10, 2015) was an important American politician. He made history by becoming the first African-American person elected as a Democrat to the South Carolina General Assembly. This was a big step forward for civil rights in South Carolina.

Early Life and Family Business

Herbert Ulysses Fielding was born in Charleston, South Carolina. His parents were Julius and Sadie Fielding. After high school, he joined the United States Army. He served during World War II.

After the war, Herbert went to college. He earned his degree from West Virginia State College in 1948. In 1952, he took over his family's business. It was called Fielding Home for Funeral Services. His father started the business in 1912. Under Herbert's leadership, it became the largest African American-owned funeral home in South Carolina. Herbert Fielding passed away on August 10, 2015.

Fighting for Civil Rights

In the 1960s, Herbert Fielding became very active in the Civil Rights Movement. This movement worked to end unfair treatment and gain equal rights for African Americans.

Fielding often helped civil rights activists. He would pay their bail if they were arrested during protests. He also worked hard to encourage African Americans to vote. At that time, many African Americans faced challenges when trying to vote. Fielding helped them learn parts of the United States Constitution. This knowledge was sometimes needed to gain voting rights. His important papers from this time are kept at the College of Charleston.

Serving in Government

Herbert Fielding was a dedicated public servant. He worked to represent the people of South Carolina in their state government.

Joining the House of Representatives

In 1970, Fielding was elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives. He was the first African American to be elected as a representative in South Carolina since the Reconstruction era. This was a major achievement. He served in this role for three years. Later, he returned to the House in 1983 and served until 1984.

Becoming a State Senator

In 1985, Fielding was elected to the South Carolina Senate. He continued to serve the people of South Carolina in this new role. He remained a state senator until 1992. In 1990, his fellow lawmakers chose him to lead the South Carolina Legislative Black Caucus. This group works to address issues important to African American communities.

See also

In Spanish: Herbert Fielding para niños