James M. Alexander facts for kids

James Milo Alexander (born February 7, 1815 – died May 27, 1871) was an important African-American leader. He was a successful businessman and politician in Phillips County, Arkansas. He made history as the first African-American justice of the peace in Arkansas. A justice of the peace is a local judge who handles small legal cases.

James Milo Alexander was born into slavery in North Carolina. Even though he was enslaved, his owner taught him how to read and write. Later, they moved to Arkansas, which was a new and developing area at the time. There, his owner allowed him to start his own business, a barbershop.

After the American Civil War, Alexander became very active in politics. He joined the Republican Party. He held several important jobs in Helena, Arkansas. He worked as a postmaster, which means he was in charge of the local post office. He also served as a school trustee, helping to manage local schools. Alexander was even a member of a grand jury, which is a group of citizens who decide if there is enough evidence for a trial. Finally, he became a representative in the Arkansas House of Representatives, helping to make laws for his state.

Alexander's Family and Their Achievements

James Milo Alexander had seven children. Five of them went to Oberlin College in Ohio. This was a very special college known for accepting students of all races.

One of his sons, John Hanks Alexander (1864–1894), became a truly remarkable person. He was the first African-American officer in the United States armed forces to hold a regular command position. He was also the second African-American to graduate from the United States Military Academy, also known as West Point.

Another son, Titus, became a political organizer in California in the 1920s. He worked hard to convince African-Americans to support the Democratic Party. He did this through a group called the National Negro Democratic Congress.

See also

• List of African-American officeholders during Reconstruction