Robert Lincoln Poston facts for kids
Robert T. Lincoln Poston was an important African-American journalist and newspaper editor. He was also a key leader in the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA). This group worked to unite and empower people of African descent worldwide. Poston sadly passed away while returning from a special mission for the UNIA in Liberia.
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Robert T. Lincoln Poston's Early Life
Robert T. Lincoln Poston was born on February 25, 1891, in Hopkinsville, Kentucky. He came from a family who loved writing and journalism. His father, Ephraim Poston, was a teacher and a poet. He even wrote books like Manual on Parliamentary Proceedings and Pastoral Poems. Robert's mother was Mollie Cox. He had six brothers and sisters.
Education and Journalism Career
Poston went to Walden University in Nashville, Tennessee. He also studied at Howard University. He became a newspaper publisher and editor in Detroit, Michigan. Later, he wrote poems and articles for the Negro World newspaper. This newspaper was part of the UNIA.
In 1921, Poston became the Assistant Secretary-General of the UNIA. He was then promoted to Secretary General in 1922. His brother, Ulysses, also worked at the Negro World newspaper. Robert and Ulysses helped direct a play called "Tallaboo" for the UNIA's drama club in 1922.
Marriage and Mission to Liberia
In 1923, Poston married the famous sculptor Augusta Savage. In December of that year, he led a special group to Liberia. Liberia is a country in West Africa. The UNIA wanted to help African Americans move to Liberia. Poston hoped to make final plans for this big move.
He traveled with Henrietta Vinton Davis and Milton Van Lowe. They met with President King of Liberia. However, they could not get the full permission or help they needed. Poston was very disappointed on his way home.
Robert Poston's Death and Legacy
While on the ship SS President Grant, Poston became very sick. He caught a fever and died from pneumonia. This happened on March 16, 1924.
On March 19, 1924, the UNIA held a special funeral for Poston. It was at Liberty Hall. They honored him by giving him the title of Prince of Africa.
