Adam Clayton Powell Jr.

Adam Clayton Powell Jr. (November 29, 1908 – April 4, 1972) was a prominent American politician and Baptist minister who represented the Harlem neighborhood of New York City in the United States House of Representatives. He was the first person of African-American descent to be elected from New York to Congress.

Early Life and Education

Powell was born in New Haven, Connecticut, to Adam Clayton Powell Sr. and Mattie Buster Shaffer. He attended Colgate University and later earned a master's degree in religious education from Columbia University.

Political Career

Powell was elected to the New York City Council in 1941 and to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1944. As a congressman, he became a national spokesman for civil rights and social justice. He was instrumental in passing legislation that improved the lives of African Americans, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Committee Chairmanship

In 1961, Powell became the chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee. Under his leadership, the committee passed over 50 pieces of legislation, including minimum wage increases, education funding, and anti-poverty programs.

Controversies

Powell's career was not without controversy. He was accused of mismanaging committee funds and was involved in several legal battles. In 1967, he was excluded from his seat in Congress, but was re-elected and returned to serve until 1971.

Legacy

Powell's legacy is marked by his advocacy for civil rights and his role in shaping social policy in the United States. He is remembered as a trailblazer for African Americans in politics.

See Also

• Civil Rights Movement
• Harlem Renaissance
• United States House of Representatives

References

• "Adam Clayton Powell Jr." Encyclopedia Britannica.
• "The Political Legacy of Adam Clayton Powell Jr." History.com.

External Links

• [Adam Clayton Powell Jr. at the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress]
• [Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Papers at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture]