Douglas Wilder
Douglas Wilder
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Douglas Edward Wilder is the commonly known name of this American politician.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born on January 5, 1933
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Nationality: American
Professions: Politician, Educator
Early Life and Background
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Douglas Wilder was born in Richmond, Virginia. His mother, Lizetta, was a school teacher while his father, Douglas Edgar Wilder Sr., was a high school principal.
He grew up in a family with strong educational values. He attended Virginia Union University on a scholarship before transferring to Virginia State College, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics and biology in 1955.
Wilder later received his Master's degree from the University of Virginia in 1961. His academic achievements laid the foundation for his future career as an educator and politician.
Major Accomplishments
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Historic Governor: In 1989, Wilder made history by becoming the first African American to be elected governor in the United States.
Virginia Lieutenant Governor: Before becoming governor, he served two terms as the lieutenant governor of Virginia from 1986 to 1990.
U.S. Congress Member: Wilder represented the city of Richmond in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1969 to 1971.Notable Works or Actions
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Wilder's notable works and actions include:
Education Reforms: As governor, he implemented education reforms that improved teacher training and student achievement.
Racial Justice: He worked tirelessly for racial justice and equality throughout his career, often challenging discriminatory practices.
Leadership Positions: Wilder held leadership positions in various organizations, including the National League of Cities and the Democratic National Committee.
Impact and Legacy
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Douglas Wilder's impact on American politics is profound. His election as governor marked a significant milestone in the nation's history, demonstrating that racial barriers could be broken with determination and hard work.
Wilder's commitment to education reform has left a lasting legacy in Virginia, where student achievement and teacher training have improved significantly since his tenure as governor.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Douglas Wilder is widely quoted and remembered for his:
Trailblazing Career: His pioneering work as the first African American governor has inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in politics.
Commitment to Education: His tireless efforts to improve education have left a lasting impact on Virginia's students and teachers.
* Leadership and Service: Wilder's dedication to public service is an example for future generations of leaders.
Douglas Wilder's remarkable life, achievements, and legacy continue to inspire people from all walks of life. His quotes and wisdom remain relevant today, offering valuable insights into leadership, education, and racial justice.
Quotes by Douglas Wilder
Since Obama has expressed admiration for the portrait of Abraham Lincoln that Doris Kearns Goodwin paints in 'Team of Rivals,' he could do the 16th president one better: He should name Hillary Clinton as his running mate in 2012. That would be both needed change and audacious.
During the 2008 campaign, I strongly endorsed Barack Obama for president. I did so early, when many Democratic leaders – including many prominent African-American politicians – believed the safe bet was to back then-front-runner Hillary Clinton.
Suppose something would happen to the president, who would be in charge? The Vice President. Joe Biden? You have got to be kidding today when you say the Taliban’s not our enemy.
You don’t ever earn a right to stop doing anything if you feel there is an obligation to move in terms of public service.
Certain black leaders would believe that you have to go through their prism: ‘If I lay my hand on you, you’re OK.’ So many people have made a living off of the pimping of race.
There will be those who will tell you that you can’t make it because of how you look, because of the way you talk. We all have heard that – I almost listened.
In the class that I teach at one University, I stress that my one-word definition of politics is money. You can’t name a subject matter that money doesn’t touch.
What is blackness? Is it the way you talk? Do you got to say, ‘Dey this, dey dat.’ Or the way you dress? Or is it the forgiving of certain things? What is black enough?
There will be those who will tell you that you can't make it because of how you look, because of the way you talk. We all have heard that - I almost listened.
Africa is not a country, but it is a continent like none other. It has that which is elegantly vast or awfully little.