Robert William Stewart facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Robert William Stewart
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| Born | March 1, 1850 |
| Died | July 27, 1931 (aged 81) Los Angeles
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Robert William Stewart (born March 1, 1850 – died July 27, 1931) was a brave American police officer. He made history in 1886 when he became the very first Black officer on the Los Angeles Police force.
Stewart's Early Life and Freedom
Robert William Stewart was born on March 1, 1850, in Garrard County, Kentucky. At that time, he was born into slavery. He gained his freedom after the US Civil War ended. This war helped many people like Robert become free.
Becoming a Police Officer
After gaining his freedom, Robert Stewart moved west to California. He settled in Los Angeles. In 1886, he joined the Los Angeles Police Department. This was a very important step, as he was the first Black officer to serve in that police force.
Stewart worked hard as an officer. He was a pioneer, opening doors for others. He served the city of Los Angeles for several years.
Later Life and Recognition
Later in his life, Robert Stewart left the police force. He worked in other jobs, like a janitor and a laborer, in Los Angeles. He passed away on July 27, 1931, in Los Angeles.
Many years after his death, in 2021, the Los Angeles Police Commission did something special. They voted to officially bring him back to the force, even though he had passed away. This is called "posthumous reinstatement." The commission stated that Robert Stewart had been "unjustly fired" from his job many years ago. This action recognized his important place in history and corrected a past wrong.
