John Jones (county commissioner) facts for kids

John Jones (born November 3, 1816 – died May 21, 1878) was an important African American leader. He was born free, meaning he was never enslaved. John Jones moved to Alton, Illinois, and then to Chicago, where he opened a successful tailoring business. He became a strong voice and leader in the fight for equal rights for African Americans. Later in his life, he was even elected to a public office.

John Jones: A Champion for Rights

John Jones was born in Greene County, North Carolina. From a young age, he saw the unfairness faced by African Americans. He became a leading activist, working hard to change laws and practices that treated people unfairly.

Fighting for Equality

John Jones was a brave activist who spoke out against many injustices. He fought against what were called Black Laws. These were unfair rules that limited the freedom and opportunities for African Americans after slavery ended. He also worked to end discrimination, which means treating people badly because of their race. He opposed segregation, which was the practice of keeping people of different races separated, often in schools, public places, and neighborhoods.

Jones was a strong supporter of suffrage, which is the right to vote for all citizens. He believed everyone, no matter their race, should have the right to vote and participate in government. He also championed civil rights, which are the basic rights and freedoms that all people should have.

A Leader in Chicago Politics

John Jones was not just an activist; he was also a respected leader in his community. He was appointed to important civic roles, meaning he was chosen to help with city matters.

In 1871, John Jones made history. He was elected as a Cook County commissioner. This made him one of the very first African American officials to be elected in Chicago. A Cook County commissioner is someone who helps manage the county's government and services. He was re-elected for another three-year term in 1872, showing that people trusted him to do a good job.

Remembering John Jones

John Jones's legacy lives on. The Chicago Museum of History keeps a photograph and a painted portrait of him, created by the artist Aaron E. Darling. The museum also has a portrait of his wife, painted by the same artist. The place where John Jones and his family lived is now recognized as an important city landmark, reminding everyone of his contributions to Chicago and the fight for civil rights.