Coleman Young

Date of Birth: May 24, 1918

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: November 29, 1997

Biography

Coleman A. Young was a groundbreaking American politician who served as the Mayor of Detroit, Michigan, from 1974 to 1994. Born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Young moved to Detroit with his family as a child. He became involved in labor organizing and civil rights activism, which propelled him into a political career. He made history as Detroit’s first African American mayor and was known for his efforts to combat racial segregation and improve the city’s economic conditions. During his tenure, Young worked tirelessly to revitalize Detroit, though his time in office was also marked by significant challenges, including economic downturns and rising crime rates. Despite these obstacles, his leadership left a lasting impact on the city and its residents.

5 Interesting Facts about Coleman Young

1. Coleman Young served in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II as a member of the Tuskegee Airmen, the first African American military aviators.

2. Young was a founding member of the National Negro Labor Council, an organization that fought against labor discrimination.

3. He was known for his blunt and straightforward manner of speaking, which earned him both admiration and criticism.

4. Coleman Young played a significant role in the desegregation of Detroit’s public institutions and services.

5. His tenure as mayor saw the construction of the Renaissance Center, a major development intended to revitalize Detroit’s economy.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Coleman Young

1. “I issue a warning to all those who would threaten the life, liberty, or property of the citizens of Detroit: don’t come here, don’t commit crime here.”

2. “Racism is a disease. It’s a cancer. It must be eradicated.”

3. “There is no excuse for mediocrity.”

4. “The only thing that can beat a good idea is a better idea.”

5. “We must work together to rebuild our city and make it a place where everyone can thrive.”