Early Years
Barbara Jordan was born in Houston, Texas on February 21, 1936. She was the youngest of three children, and her mother was a teacher and her father an electrician. Jordan was an excellent student, and she received a scholarship to attend Texas Southern University. While at Texas Southern, Jordan distinguished herself as a student leader and was elected to the student senate. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and history in 1956.
Personal Life
Jordan's personal life was marked by her commitment to her faith, her work and her family. She was a devoted member of the Antioch Baptist Church and had a strong faith in God. Jordan also dedicated her life to her work, and she was known as a hard worker and an advocate for justice. Additionally, she was a loving and supportive mother to her two sons.
Influences
Barbara Jordan was influenced by a number of people, including:
- Martin Luther King Jr.
- Thurgood Marshall
- Rosa Parks
- Eleanor Roosevelt
- Coretta Scott King
Career
Jordan went on to attend Boston University Law School, where she graduated in 1959. Following her graduation, she was admitted to the State Bar of Texas and began her law practice in Houston. In 1966, she was elected to the Texas Senate, becoming the first African-American woman to do so. She was reelected in 1968 and served until 1972.
In 1972, Jordan ran for the United States House of Representatives and became the first African-American woman from the Deep South to be elected to Congress. During her time in Congress, she served on the Judiciary Committee and was a powerful advocate for civil rights. She was reelected in 1974 and served until 1979.
Accomplishments
Jordan was an accomplished lawyer, educator, and politician. During her time in Congress, she was the first African-American woman to deliver a keynote address at the Democratic National Convention in 1976. She was also appointed as a United States Ambassador to the United Nations Human Rights Commission in 1976. In 1979, she became the first African-American woman to serve in the House Judiciary Committee.
Books
- Barbara Jordan: American Hero by Mary Beth Rogers
- Barbara Jordan: Speaking the Truth with Eloquent Thunder by Mary Beth Rogers
- Barbara Jordan: From the Bar to the Halls of Congress by Mary Beth Rogers
- Barbara Jordan: Power of the Word by Mary Beth Rogers
- Barbara Jordan: Breaking the Barriers by Mary Beth Rogers
Exceptional Traits
Barbara Jordan was a powerful and inspiring voice for African-Americans. She was an eloquent and passionate speaker, and her words were filled with intelligence and conviction. She was known for her keen intellect and her thought-provoking insight. Jordan was also a compassionate and empathetic leader who was devoted to justice and equality.
Legacy
Throughout her life, Barbara Jordan was an inspiring leader who fought for civil rights, justice and equality. She was a powerful advocate for African-Americans, and her words continue to inspire audiences to begin their own personal research. Jordan's legacy is one of courage, strength, and determination, and she continues to be an example of what is possible when one is committed to their beliefs.
Conclusion
Barbara Jordan was an inspiring leader and an example of courage and determination. Throughout her life, she was an advocate for civil rights and justice, and her words continue to inspire audiences to begin their own personal research. Jordan's legacy will continue to live on, and she will be remembered as an example of Black excellence.
