Thomas F. Cassels facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas F. Cassels
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| Tennessee House of Representatives | |
| In office 1881–1882 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born |
Thomas Frank Cassels
c. 1845 Berlin Crossroads, Ohio, U.S. |
| Died | April 2, 1903 (aged 57–58) Memphis, Tennessee |
| Cause of death | tuberculosis |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse | Emma Frances Lett |
Thomas Frank Cassels (born around 1845 – died April 2, 1903) was an important lawyer and politician. He lived in Memphis, Tennessee. He was a member of the Tennessee House of Representatives from 1881 to 1882.
He was part of the Republican Party. He represented Shelby County, Tennessee. This county is in the western part of the state.
Contents
Who Was Thomas Frank Cassels?
Thomas Frank Cassels was a very important person in Memphis. He was the first African American lawyer allowed to practice law there. This was a big step forward for civil rights.
His Work as a Lawyer
As a lawyer, Thomas Cassels helped many people. He once represented a famous journalist named Ida B. Wells. She sued a railroad company called C&O Railroad. This case was about unfair treatment.
He also worked for the government in Memphis. He was an Assistant Attorney General. This means he helped the main lawyer for the city.
His Role in Politics
Thomas Cassels was active in politics. In 1888, he was chosen as a presidential elector. This means he helped formally elect the President of the United States. This was a significant role for an African American during that time.
Why Was He Important?
Thomas Frank Cassels lived during a time called the Reconstruction Era. This was after the American Civil War. It was a time when the country was rebuilding. Many African Americans gained new rights, but they still faced many challenges.
Cassels's work as a lawyer and politician helped to fight for equal rights. He showed that African Americans could hold important positions. He helped to make society more fair for everyone.
