From slave to state legislator : John W.E. Thomas, Illinois' first African American lawmaker / David A. Joens.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 213-246) and index.

Introduction: "A representative of its colored citizens" -- "Let us come out like men": the historic election of 1876 -- "An able, attentive, and sensible representative": the first term and a failed reelection bid -- "Justly entitled to representation": the long road back to the legislature -- "Advising moderation in all things": the 1883 legislative session and colored convention -- "We are here as citizens": reelection, the Civil Rights Bill, and another colored convention -- "By no means an unimportant position": election to the office of South Town clerk in 1887 -- "You ought not insult the colored people!" a final bid for the state legislature -- "Forget personal grievances": uniting the community as elder statesman -- Conclusion: "leader of the colored race is dead."

Print version record.

As the first African American elected to the Illinois general assembly, John W.E. Thomas was the recognized leader of the state's African American community for nearly twenty years and laid the groundwork for the success of future black leaders in Chicago politics. Despite his key role in the passage of Illinois' first civil rights act and his commitment to improving his community against steep personal and political barriers, Thomas's life and career have been long forgotten by historians and the public alike. This fascinating full-length biography-the first to address the ful.

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