Thomas W. Harvey facts for kids

Thomas Watson Harvey (born November 27, 1893 – died June 27, 1978) was an important leader of the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League (UNIA). He served as its President-General from 1956 until his death in 1978.

His Early Life and Journey

Thomas Watson Harvey was born in Douglas, Burke County, Georgia, in 1893. He was the oldest of twelve children. His father was a farmer, and both of his grandparents had been slaves. He was named after Thomas E. Watson, a political leader in Georgia who supported both Black and white people who were struggling at the time.

As a young man, Harvey left his hometown to find work. He traveled to different towns in Georgia like Waynesboro, Augusta, and Atlanta. He became more and more aware of the challenges faced by Black Americans. Because of this, he decided to travel north, hoping for a better life.

Moving North and Joining the Army

In 1917, when he was 22, Harvey arrived in Philadelphia. He joined the U.S. Army and was discharged in 1919.

Becoming a Leader in the UNIA

Soon after leaving the army, Thomas Watson Harvey became involved with the UNIA. This group was founded by Marcus Garvey, who was a very influential leader. Harvey became one of just thirteen students taught directly by Garvey in the special School of African philosophy.

Rising Through the Ranks

Harvey joined the UNIA in 1919 and quickly became very active. He started as an ordinary member and moved up to many important positions. These included:

• Lieutenant of the African Legions (a special group within the UNIA)
• Commissioner for the State of New York
• Commissioner for the State of Ohio
• High Chancellor of the Parent Body (when the UNIA's main office was in London, England)
• A close advisor to Marcus Garvey
• A division president

Harvey was known for his strong belief in Garvey's ideas and his ability to help people get along. He also showed his strong principles when he disagreed with Senator Theodore Bilbo in 1938. Bilbo used racist language while talking about a plan to send African Americans back to Africa. Harvey made it clear he did not support such ideas.

Leading the UNIA

In 1951, Harvey was chosen as President-General of the UNIA Rehabilitating Committee in Detroit. After this, he started a newspaper called Garvey's Voice. He was elected to lead the UNIA again in 1960 and was re-elected every four years until he passed away.

He dedicated many years to the UNIA, even doing small tasks like painting rooms, sweeping, or preparing meals for visitors. He was known for being a peacemaker and a strong supporter of Marcus Garvey's vision.

His Impact and Legacy

Thomas Watson Harvey traveled widely, from Georgia to big cities, and met many important people. He was known for his patience and his dedication to others.

The African Project

One of the most important parts of Harvey's work was helping to create the African Project in 1966. This project was led by Reverend Clarence Harding, Jr. It was located in Monrovia, Liberia, and included a school that was officially recognized. This school was part of the Garvey Memorial Foundation and was overseen by the minister of education.

His Final Years

Thomas Watson Harvey passed away in 1978 at the age of 84. He died at the home of his daughter, Jean Slappy, in Philadelphia. His funeral was held at Antioch Second Baptist Church, and he was buried at Mount Lawn Cemetery in Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania.