James L. Farmer, Jr.
Historical marker location:Civil Rights leader James Leonard Farmer, Jr., son of Pearl (Houston) and Dr. James l. Farmer, Sr., was born in Marshall where his father was a professor at Wiley College. The family moved to Atlanta, Georgia, and Austin, Texas, before returning to Marshall in 1930. James Farmer, Jr., entered Wiley College at age 14 and joined the famous debate team led by Melvin Tolson and was challenged with discussions about inequality. In 1938, Farmer entered the Ministerial Program of Howard University, Washington, D.C., under the direction of Howard Thurman, a student of Mahatma Ghandi and nonviolent philosophy techniques to achieve social change. Inspired by Thurman and Tolson, Farmer turned his attention to civil rights and moved to Chicago in 1941.
In 1942, Farmer co-founded the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE), which trained civil rights leaders in Ghandi-inspired nonviolent civil disobedience tactics to protest racial discrimination. Under his leadership, CORE organized the first sit-ins of restaurants in Chicago. In 1961, CORE organized the freedom rides into the Deep South, led by Farmer. CORE, other organizations for equality and James Farmer, Jr., were instrumental in the passage of the Civil Rights Act on July 2, 1964.
In 1968, Farmer ran unsuccessfully on the Liberal party ticket, backed by the Republican party, and was appointed Assistant Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare in 1969. Farmer also worked as a union organizer and lecturer, as well as a professor at Amherst College and Mary Washington College. In 1998, President Clinton awarded Farmer the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Farmer died on July 9, 1999.
(2016)
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
Texas is a state of mind. Texas is an obsession. Above all, Texas is a nation in every sense of the word.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, Harris County experienced rapid economic diversification and growth. The discovery of oil in the Spindletop field fueled Houston's emergence as an energy and petrochemical hub. Industries like cotton, lumber, shipping, and manufacturing thrived. NASA's Johnson Space Center further solidified the county's significance in space exploration and technology.
Harris County's demographic diversity is a defining aspect, attracting immigrants from various backgrounds. Houston became a cosmopolitan city with a vibrant culinary scene, dynamic arts community, and diverse festivals, reflecting its multicultural fabric.
Today, Harris County remains an influential economic and cultural center. Its strong economy spans energy, healthcare, technology, and international trade. The county houses renowned medical facilities and research institutions. Despite facing natural disasters, Harris County showcases resilience and implements measures to mitigate their impact.
With its rich history, economic vitality, multiculturalism, and ongoing growth, Harris County continues to shape Texas as a thriving hub of commerce, culture, and innovation.
Harris County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Harris County, Texas.
Pre-19th Century: The region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Atakapa.
1822: Harrisburg, the county's first settlement, is founded by John Richardson Harris, a pioneer and one of the early Texas colonists.
1836: The Battle of San Jacinto, which secured Texas independence from Mexico, took place in present-day Harris County.
1837: Harris County is officially established and named after John Richardson Harris.
19th Century: Houston, the county seat and the largest city in Texas, experiences rapid growth due to its strategic location along Buffalo Bayou and the construction of railroads. The city becomes a major commercial and shipping hub, attracting industries such as cotton, lumber, and oil.
20th Century: The discovery of oil in the nearby Spindletop field and the subsequent growth of the oil industry greatly contribute to Harris County's economic development. Houston becomes an energy and petrochemical center.
1960s-1980s: The space industry plays a crucial role in Harris County's history with the establishment of NASA's Johnson Space Center, where mission control for the Apollo program is located.
Today: Harris County continues to be a thriving economic and cultural center. It is home to a diverse population, numerous industries, world-class medical facilities, and renowned cultural institutions.
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