Jesse D. Locker facts for kids
Jesse Dwight Locker (born May 31, 1891, in College Hill, Cincinnati; died April 10, 1955, in Monrovia, Liberia) was an important American lawyer and politician. He made history when he became the second Black American to be appointed as an ambassador for the United States, serving in Liberia. His life showed how hard work and dedication can lead to big achievements.
Early Life and Education
Jesse Dwight Locker grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio. His father, Laban Locker, was a very important person in their community. He was the first Black minister to be ordained in the Christian Church in Ohio.
Jesse was a brilliant student. He was the top student in his class when he graduated from College Hill High School. Later, he went on to study law at Howard University. He earned his law degree in 1945.
A Career in Law and Politics
After finishing his studies, Jesse Locker returned to Cincinnati. He worked as a lawyer for 35 years, helping many people with legal matters.
In 1941, Jesse Locker decided to enter politics. He was elected to the Cincinnati City Council. This was a big moment because he was the first African American to be elected to the council. He served on the council for almost 12 years. In 1951, his fellow council members chose him to be their president. This showed how much they respected his leadership.
Jesse Locker also led a group called the Hamilton County Bar Association for Negro Lawyers. This group was for Black lawyers during a time when many parts of society were separated by race.
Serving as an Ambassador
Jesse Locker's career reached a new height when he was appointed as the American ambassador to Liberia. This was a very important job, representing the United States in another country.
As ambassador, he played a key role in important discussions. He helped manage talks between private companies like Pan American and US Airlines, the government of Liberia, and the United States. These talks were all about how the Roberts Field airport would operate. This airport was the first international airport in Liberia.
Later Life
Jesse Locker sadly suffered a stroke on April 4, 1955, while he was in Monrovia, Liberia. He passed away there a few days later, on April 10, 1955. His life was full of important contributions to law, politics, and diplomacy.
