Paul McKinney (politician) facts for kids

Paul McKinney was an American politician who lived from 1923 to 1995. He was a member of the Democratic Party. From 1975 to 1982, he served in the Pennsylvania State Senate, representing the 8th district.

Early Life and Education

Paul McKinney was born in 1923 in Albany, Georgia. When he was 18, in 1941, he moved to Darby, Pennsylvania. During World War II and for some time after, he served in the U.S. Merchant Marines. This group of ships carried goods and supplies during the war.

In the late 1940s, McKinney moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He continued his education there, attending Palmer Business College.

Business Ventures

Paul McKinney was a successful business owner. His first business was a restaurant and catering service. He ran this with his wife, Bessie.

Later, in the 1960s, he owned a shop that sold and repaired televisions. In 1966, he became one of the first African American independent contractors for the U.S. Postal Service in Philadelphia. This meant he ran his own business that worked with the postal service.

Political Career

Paul McKinney was very involved in politics. He was a Democratic Party Committeeman for many years. He also served as the Ward Chairman for West Philadelphia's 60th Ward. A ward is a local area within a city, and a ward chairman helps lead the party's efforts there.

In 1974, he was elected to the Pennsylvania State Senate. He represented the 8th district. He served as a state senator from 1975 until 1982.

Family Life

In 1949, Paul McKinney married Bessie Grayson. They had five daughters together. One of their daughters, Diane McKinney-Whetstone, became a well-known author. She also taught creative writing at the University of Pennsylvania.