Former Mayor of St. Louis
How Education Made Him a Leader
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| Former St. Louis Mayor Freeman Bosley talks to Scholastic Kid Reporter Holly Sumner in Bosley’s office in St. Louis, Missouri, in January 2007. (Photo: Courtesy Holly Sumner) |
Freeman Bosley Jr. is a hero to the families who lived near the flood waters of the Mississippi River in St. Louis, Missouri. In 1993, the river flooded. Bosley moved 10,000 people from their homes to safer locations. The region was declared a disaster area, which created an uproar. Many people criticized him, declaring that “the only disaster here is Bosley!” Two days later, the water engulfed and destroyed the homes.
“If I had been a weak mayor, and stood down as opposed to being a leader, a lot of those people would’ve been dead,” Bosley said.
Bosley spoke to Scholastic News recently for a series of articles commemorating Black History Month this February. Black History Month started in 1926, as “Black History Week.” It was created by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, who was disturbed to find that blacks were ignored in history books.
“I think Black History Month is important for black people to understand the contributions that African-Americans have made to the country,” Bosley told Scholastic News. “But I also think it is important that other people understand the contributions that African-Americans have made to this country as well.”
Bosley has many accomplishments to his credit. He was the first African-American mayor of St. Louis. He is a role model to many, and a prominent attorney.
When asked who his childhood role models were, Bosley stated that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was one of his favorites. His grandmother gave him a copy of the “I have a Dream” speech when Bosley was a child. He was also inspired by John Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, and Andrew Young.
Bosley’s family also inspired him. His father and grandfather could always stand up and make a speech. His grandmother would bring him articles about his role models, and his mother was always there for him—often helping with schoolwork late into the night.
Bosley stressed the importance of education to becoming a successful leader. “ The real purpose of education is not just to improve your economic status, but for you to improve your community,” he said.
The family name “Freeman” was selected by Bosley’s paternal grandmother, a 10-year President of Sumner High School PTA. He was named after a teacher his grandmother respected.
Bosley believes there is still prejudice worldwide. For example, he stated that people still vote for political candidates because of their background and race. He believes that hip-hop and rap music are bringing many people together—people of all races go to music concerts together.
Bosley was mayor from September 1993 to April 1997. The city only had $1 million in reserve when he became mayor. There was $60 million in reserve when he left office. Many remember him for moving the Rams football team to St. Louis from Los Angeles. In 2000, the Rams won the Superbowl. “We’re Superbowl Champs!” Bosley boasts.
Freeman Bosley is a great role model for children and adults. He has worked hard for St. Louis.
“You get out of life what you put into it,” he said.
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Black History Month
Celebrate Black History Month with Scholastic News Online! Learn more about African-American leaders and their contributions.
Holly Sumner is a member of the Scholastic Kids Press Corps.
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