Carl B. Stokes made history by becoming the first African American elected mayor of a major U.S. city when he won the Cleveland mayoral election on November 7, 1967. He officially began his tenure as the 51st mayor of Cleveland on January 1, 1968. ?NPS.govWikipedia
During his two terms, Stokes implemented significant reforms, including opening city hall jobs to African Americans and women, and initiating urban revitalization programs. His leadership during events like the 1969 Cuyahoga River fire brought national attention to environmental issues. ?
Stokes’ groundbreaking election paved the way for greater African American political representation in major U.S. cities.
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