On December 16, 1976, President-elect Jimmy Carter nominated Andrew Young to serve as the United States Ambassador to the United Nations, making him the first African American to hold this prestigious position. ?

Andrew Young: A Trailblazer in Civil Rights and Diplomacy

• Early Life and Education: Born on March 12, 1932, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Young pursued higher education at Howard University, followed by a divinity degree from Hartford Seminary. ?

• Civil Rights Leadership: As a close confidant of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Young played a pivotal role in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), contributing significantly to the Civil Rights Movement. ?

• Political Career: In 1972, Young was elected as the first African American congressman from Georgia since Reconstruction, serving until his UN appointment in 1977. ?

• UN Ambassadorship: During his tenure from 1977 to 1979, Ambassador Young emphasized human rights and advocated for economic development in Third World countries, notably supporting efforts to end apartheid in South Africa. ?

Andrew Young’s nomination and service as UN Ambassador marked a significant milestone in American history, reflecting his enduring commitment to justice and equality on both national and international stages.