The election of Edward Brooke to the United States Senate in 1966 marked the first time an African American was chosen for the chamber by popular vote. Serving Massachusetts from 1967 through 1979, he broke barriers while navigating the complexities of the Republican Party during a period of significant national political transition.
Background and Military Service
Born on October 26, 1919, in Washington, D.C., Brooke attended Dunbar High School before earning a degree from Howard University in 1941. Following the entry of the United States into World War II, he joined the U.S. Army. As a captain in the 366th Infantry Regiment, he served in Italy, where his actions earned him the Bronze Star Medal, the American Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. His wartime experiences shaped his perspective on racial inequality, influencing his subsequent return to education at the Boston University School of Law, where he graduated in 1948.
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Brooke established a private law practice in Boston after completing his legal studies. His political career began in the 1950s, characterized by initial electoral losses before his appointment to the Boston Finance Commission. In 1962, he achieved a historic milestone by winning election as the Attorney General of Massachusetts, becoming the first African American to hold such a statewide office in any state. He served in this capacity from 1963 to 1967, focusing on public corruption and organized crime.
Tenure in the United States Senate
Seated in the Senate on January 3, 1967, Brooke identified with the liberal faction of the Republican Party. His legislative record included co-authoring the Civil Rights Act of 1968, which addressed housing discrimination. During the Watergate scandal, he distinguished himself as the first Republican senator to publicly call for the resignation of President Richard Nixon. He remained in the Senate for twelve years, serving consecutive terms until 1979.
Later Years and Recognition
Following his departure from the Senate, Brooke practiced law in Washington, D.C., and maintained affiliations with organizations such as the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the World Policy Council. His lifelong contributions were recognized through numerous honors, including the Spingarn Medal in 1967, the Phoenix Award in 1978, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2004. He died on January 3, 2015, in Coral Gables and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
Fast facts
- Born: 1919, Washington, D.C.
- Died: 2015, Coral Gables
- Military Rank: Captain
- Education: Howard University, Boston University School of Law
- Massachusetts Attorney General: 1963-1967
- U.S. Senator: 1967-1979
- Awards include: Congressional Gold Medal, Bronze Star Medal
- Burial place: Arlington National Cemetery
Questions readers ask
Was Edward Brooke the first African American to serve in the U.S. Senate?
He was the first African American elected to the Senate by popular vote and the first to serve since 1881.
What was his primary legislative achievement?
He co-wrote the Civil Rights Act of 1968, which prohibited housing discrimination.
