As a leader in incorporating African Americans into the trade union movement and working to end discrimination in employment and segregation in the military, Randolph made major contributions toward integrating African Americans into the mainstream of the American economy.
A. Philip Randolph was the son of James William Randolph, an AME minister, and Elizabeth Robinson Randolph. He graduated as valedictorian of his class from Cookman Institute in 1907. In 1911, he moved to New York City, where he worked as an elevator operator, a porter, and a waiter. He also joined the Socialist Party and later became editor of the Messenger, the monthly publication of the Headwaiters and Sidewaiters Society of Greater New York.
In 1925, Randolph agreed to become the
Randolph continued his efforts to end discrimination throughout his life. In 1941, he proposed a march on Washington after President Franklin D. Roosevelt refused to issue an executive order barring
Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters
Eugene V. Debs
Labor history
Labor strikes
Pullman Strike
World War II