Lucien Blackwell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Lucien Blackwell
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| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Pennsylvania's 2nd district |
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| In office November 5, 1991 – January 3, 1995 |
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| Preceded by | William Gray |
| Succeeded by | Chaka Fattah |
| Member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from the 188th district |
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| In office January 2, 1973 – November 30, 1976 |
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| Preceded by | James O'Donnell |
| Succeeded by | Alija Dumas |
| Member of the Philadelphia City Council from the 3rd District | |
| In office January 7, 1974 – February 7, 1991 |
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| Preceded by | Charles L. Durham |
| Succeeded by | Jannie Blackwell |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Lucien Edward Blackwell
August 1, 1931 Whitsett, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Died | January 24, 2003 (aged 71) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Jannie Blackwell |
| Children | Thomas W. Blackwell |
Lucien Edward Blackwell (born August 1, 1931 – died January 24, 2003) was an important American leader. He was a boxer, a dockworker, and a politician. Blackwell served as a member of the Democratic party. He represented his home state of Pennsylvania in different government roles.
He was a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 1973 to 1975. Later, he joined the Philadelphia City Council from 1975 to 1991. Finally, he served in the United States House of Representatives from 1991 to 1995.
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Lucien Blackwell's Early Life
Lucien Blackwell was born in a place called Whitsett, Pennsylvania, on August 1, 1931. After finishing high school, he started working on the docks. He also tried a short career as a boxer.
In 1953, he joined the United States Army. He served his country during the Korean War. While in the Army, Blackwell even became a boxing champion. After his military service, he went back to working on the docks. In 1973, he became the president of a local union for dockworkers. This union was called the International Longshoremen's Association, Local 1332.
Making a Difference in Pennsylvania Politics
Lucien Blackwell's journey into politics began in Pennsylvania. He was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. He served there from 1973 to 1975.
Serving on the Philadelphia City Council
Many people knew Lucien Blackwell as "Lucien the Solution." He was a very active member of the Philadelphia City Council. He served on the Council for many years, from 1975 to 1991.
While on the Council, Blackwell led the Finance Committee several times. He worked hard to stop city money from being invested in companies that did business in South Africa. This was during a time when South Africa had unfair laws.
Blackwell also helped create Philadelphia's first law to help minorities and women. This law gave them more chances to get city contracts. He was also involved in creating the Pennsylvania Convention Center. He helped pass a law that allowed for the building of One Liberty Place. This building was the first to break Philadelphia's old height limit. Blackwell was known for his strong speeches and for guiding future leaders.
Serving in the United States Congress
Blackwell was elected to the United States House of Representatives. He won a special election in 1991. He took the place of Representative Bill Gray. He was then re-elected for another term.
In Congress, Blackwell was part of the United States House Committee on the Budget. He strongly supported President Bill Clinton's economic plans. He ran for re-election in 1994 but did not win. After leaving Congress, he worked as a lobbyist.
His Lasting Impact
Lucien Blackwell passed away on January 24, 2003, at 71 years old. A special mural in West Philadelphia honors him. It says, "Thank you, Mr. Blackwell."
His family has also continued his legacy in public service. His wife, Jannie Blackwell, served on the Philadelphia City Council. She represented the same district he did. His son, Thomas, was also a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
See also
