Carl Stokes

Date of Birth: June 21, 1927

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: April 3, 1996

Biography

Carl Stokes was an influential American politician who broke numerous barriers throughout his career. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, into a working-class family, he rose to prominence through hard work and dedication to public service. Stokes was best known as the first African American mayor of a major U.S. city, Cleveland, a position he held from 1967 to 1971. His tenure was marked by significant strides in civil rights and urban development, although it was also challenged by racial tensions and economic difficulties. After his mayoral terms, Stokes continued to be a prominent figure in politics and law. He served as a municipal judge and later as a news anchor, becoming one of the first African Americans to hold such a position in a major city. His impact extended beyond his immediate roles; he was a trailblazer who inspired many African Americans to pursue careers in politics and public service.

5 Interesting Facts about Carl Stokes

1. Carl Stokes was the first African American elected mayor of a major U.S. city.

2. He served as a municipal judge and became one of the first African American news anchors in a major city.

3. Stokes co-authored a book titled “Promises of Power: A Political Biography” with his brother, Louis Stokes.

4. During his tenure as mayor, he focused on urban renewal and improving the quality of life for Cleveland’s poorest residents.

5. He was awarded the NAACP’s Spingarn Medal in 1970 for his contributions to civil rights and public service.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Carl Stokes

1. “The people are tired of being pushed around by the police, harassed in the streets, and discriminated against in employment and housing.”

2. “I have been in many places, but I’ve never been in a place like Cleveland.”

3. “It’s not about race; it’s about people and their needs.”

4. “We need to go back to the days when politics was about public service, not personal gain.”

5. “I am not ashamed of my race. I am proud of who I am and what I have accomplished.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Carl Stokes’ net worth was never publicly disclosed, but his highest net worth is estimated to have been in the range of $1-$2 million, primarily from his various roles in public service, law, and media.

Children

Carl Stokes had three children: Carl Jr., Cordi, and Cordell. Carl Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps and pursued a career in public service, while Cordi and Cordell have maintained relatively private lives.