Ivan Allen

Date of Birth: March 15, 1911

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: July 2, 2003

Biography

Ivan Allen Jr. was a prominent American politician and businessman who served as the 52nd Mayor of Atlanta, Georgia, from 1962 to 1970. Born into a notable Atlanta family, Allen was the son of Ivan Allen Sr., a successful businessman. Allen Jr. attended the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he graduated in 1933. Before entering politics, he worked in the family business, Ivan Allen Company, which he eventually led and expanded. As mayor, Allen played a key role in the desegregation of public facilities and schools in Atlanta, and he was a strong advocate for civil rights. His leadership was pivotal during a critical period of racial tension and economic growth in the city. Allen’s efforts helped Atlanta become known as “The City Too Busy to Hate.” Additionally, he was instrumental in developing Atlanta’s infrastructure, including the expansion of the airport and the establishment of the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA).

5 Interesting Facts about Ivan Allen

1. Ivan Allen Jr. was awarded the Martin Luther King Jr. Nonviolent Peace Prize in 1981 for his contributions to civil rights.

2. He was the only Southern politician to testify in favor of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 before Congress.

3. During his tenure as mayor, Allen oversaw the construction of the Atlanta–Fulton County Stadium, which helped bring major league sports teams to the city.

4. He was a member of the “Atlanta Forward” movement, which aimed to promote business and development in the city.

5. Allen authored an autobiography titled “Mayor: Notes on the Sixties,” published in 1971, detailing his experiences and challenges as mayor.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ivan Allen

1. “The future doesn’t belong to the fainthearted; it belongs to the brave.”

2. “Atlanta is a city of innovation, and it’s our duty to ensure that all citizens benefit from its growth.”

3. “Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.”

4. “Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.”

5. “Civil rights are not just a Southern issue; they are an American issue.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Ivan Allen Jr.’s highest net worth is not publicly documented, but his successful business ventures and political career suggest a substantial financial standing.