Harold Moody

British physician and civil rights leader

Harold Arundel Moody (8 October 1882 – 24 April 1947) was a Jamaican-born physician and civil rights leader in the United Kingdom. He founded the League of Coloured Peoples in 1931, which was one of the first organizations in Britain to campaign for racial equality and civil rights for black and Asian people.

Early life and education

Harold Moody by Ronald Moody

Harold Moody was born in Kingston, Jamaica, on 8 October 1882. He was the son of Charles Ernest Moody, a pharmacist, and his wife, Christina Emmeline Ellis. Moody was educated at Wolmer's Schools in Kingston, where he excelled academically. In 1904, he moved to the United Kingdom to study medicine at King's College London. Despite facing racial discrimination, he graduated with a degree in medicine in 1910.

Medical career

After completing his studies, Moody sought employment in the British medical system but faced significant racial prejudice. Unable to secure a hospital position, he established his own medical practice in Peckham, South London, in 1913. His practice quickly became successful, and he was known for his dedication to his patients, many of whom were from the local working-class community.

Civil rights activism

In 1931, Moody founded the League of Coloured Peoples (LCP), an organization dedicated to fighting racial discrimination and promoting civil rights for black and Asian people in Britain. The LCP campaigned against racial discrimination in employment, housing, and education, and worked to improve race relations in the UK.

Moody was also involved in international efforts to combat racism. He attended the Pan-African Congress in 1945 and worked with other civil rights leaders to promote racial equality worldwide.

Personal life

Moody married Olive Mable Tranter in 1913, and the couple had six children. His brother, Ronald Moody, was a noted sculptor. Harold Moody was a devout Christian and an active member of the Congregational Church.

Legacy

Plaque commemorating Harold Moody

Harold Moody's work laid the foundation for future civil rights movements in the UK. His efforts to combat racial discrimination and promote equality have been recognized posthumously. A blue plaque commemorates his contributions at his former residence in Peckham.

Related pages

• League of Coloured Peoples
• Pan-African Congress
• Civil rights movement in the United Kingdom