Harold Lee Washington was an American lawyer and politician who was the 51st Mayor of Chicago. Washington became the first African American to be elected as the city's mayor in April 1983. He served as mayor from April 29, 1983, until his death on November 25, 1987. Born in Chicago and raised in the Bronzeville neighborhood, Washington became involved in local 3rd Ward politics under Chicago Alderman and future Congressman Ralph Metcalfe after graduating from Roosevelt University and Northwestern University School of Law. Washington was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1981 to 1983, representing Illinois's first district. Washington had previously served in the Illinois State Senate and the Illinois House of Representatives from 1965 until 1976.
Washington, circa 1982
Washington holds a press conference for his 1983 campaign at the Hyatt Regency Chicago on December 13, 1982.
Harold Washington speaking at the commissioning of USS Chicago (SSN-721), September 1986.
Washington mausoleum at Oak Woods Cemetery
The mayor of Chicago is the chief executive of city government in Chicago, Illinois, the third-largest city in the United States. The mayor is responsible for the administration and management of various city departments, submits proposals and recommendations to the Chicago City Council, is active in the enforcement of the city's ordinances, submits the city's annual budget and appoints city officers, department commissioners or directors, and members of city boards and commissions.
Mayor of Chicago
Mayor of Chicago
William B. Ogden was the first mayor of Chicago.
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry leaving "The Fifth Floor" office of the mayor in 2016