Jack Edward Tanner facts for kids

Jack Edward Tanner (born January 28, 1919 – died January 10, 2006) was an important judge in the United States. He served in two different federal courts in Washington state.

About Jack Edward Tanner

Jack Edward Tanner was a respected judge who made history. He was the first African-American federal judge in the Northwest United States. He worked hard to serve justice for many years.

Early Life and Career Path

Jack Edward Tanner was born in Tacoma, Washington. He joined the United States Army and served during World War II from 1943 to 1945. After the war, he worked as a longshoreman in Tacoma.

He then went to law school at the University of Washington School of Law. He earned his law degree in 1955. From 1955 to 1978, he worked as a lawyer in Tacoma. He was also a leader for the NAACP from 1957 to 1965. The NAACP is an organization that works for civil rights.

Becoming a Federal Judge

On January 20, 1978, President Jimmy Carter chose Jack Tanner to be a federal judge. He was approved by the United States Senate on May 17, 1978. He officially became a judge on May 19, 1978. This was a big moment because he was the first black federal judge in the Northwest.

He first served in both the Eastern and Western Districts of Washington. Later that year, on November 8, 1978, he was assigned only to the Western District.

Later Years and Legacy

Judge Tanner continued to serve on the court. On January 28, 1991, he took on a special role called senior status. This means he continued to work but with a reduced caseload. He served in this role until he passed away on January 10, 2006, in Tacoma, after an illness.

Jack Edward Tanner's career as a federal judge was very important. He helped shape the legal system and opened doors for others.

See also

• List of African-American jurists
• List of first minority male lawyers and judges in West Virginia