William G. Anderson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William G. Anderson
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | December 12, 1927 |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Alabama State University Des Moines University |
| Occupation | Physician, Surgeon |
| Known for | Albany Movement |
Dr. William G. Anderson, born on December 12, 1927, is an American doctor and surgeon. He made history as the first African-American to join the main board of the American Osteopathic Association (AOA). He served on this board for twenty years and even became its president. Dr. Anderson is most famous for leading the Albany Movement, a major part of the Civil Rights Movement in Albany, Georgia, which started in 1961.
Contents
Early Life and Education
William G. Anderson was born in Americus, Georgia, on December 12, 1927. His parents were John D. Anderson and Emma Gilchrist Anderson. After finishing high school, he went to Alabama State University (then called Alabama State College for Negroes). He earned his first degree there in 1949.
After college, Dr. Anderson studied medicine at Des Moines University (DMU) in Des Moines, Iowa. He received his medical degree from the DMU College of Osteopathic Medicine.
A Doctor's Career
Dr. Anderson has had a long and important career in medicine. He worked as an associate dean at the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine. He was also a professor at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. There, he taught about osteopathic surgery.
He helped create medical education programs for students and doctors in training. These programs were at several hospitals in Michigan. These hospitals later joined together to form the St. John Providence Health System.
Leading the Civil Rights Movement
Dr. Anderson is perhaps best known for his brave work in the Civil Rights Movement. In 1957, after finishing his medical training, he moved to Albany, Georgia, to open his own practice. However, because of strict segregation laws and racist attitudes, he was stopped from treating patients.
Dr. Anderson decided to fight against this unfair treatment. He became the founder and first president of the Albany Movement. This movement worked to end segregation and gain equal rights for African-Americans.
Working with Martin Luther King Jr.
Dr. Anderson took part in many civil rights marches. He worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr.. In December 1961, he was sent to prison in his hometown. He was charged for taking part in a march. Dr. Anderson, Dr. King, and others believed it was simply a walk to hold prayers at the city hall in Albany.
Later Work and Legacy
Dr. Anderson is also a member of Physicians for Social Responsibility. This group works for peace and health.
As of 2010, Dr. Anderson serves on the board of directors at the Virginia campus of VCOM. This is the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is also still a faculty member at the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. This university holds a special lecture series each year named after him. It celebrates his work in civil rights.
