Roland Burris

Roland Burris

Roland Burris was born on August 3rd, 1937

Full Name: Roland Burris
Profession: Lawyer and Politician
Nationality: American
Born: 1937
Height: Not Publicly Known
Weight: Not Publicly Known
Spouse: Not Publicly Known
Children: Not Publicly Known

The first African American to hold statewide office in Illinois, serving as Attorney General and later filling Barack Obama's Senate seat amidst controversy.

Written by: Jack Thompson Jack Thompson

Roland Burris: The Trailblazing Politician and Attorney

A Pioneer in Illinois Politics

Roland Burris is known for being the first African American to hold statewide office in Illinois, serving as the Illinois Comptroller from 1978 to 1990. He then made history again by becoming the Attorney General of Illinois from 1991 to 1995, followed by his appointment as a United States Senator in 2009, succeeding Barack Obama.

Early Life and Education

Born on August 3, 1937, in Centralia, Illinois, Burris comes from a family with roots tracing back to American slaves in Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee. He graduated from Centralia High School in 1955 and went on to attend Southern Illinois University Carbondale, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science in 1959. As an exchange student, he studied International Law at the University of Hamburg in Germany on scholarship. Burris then earned his Juris Doctor degree from the Howard University School of Law in 1963.

A Career Marked by Firsts

Burris's career has been filled with trailblazing moments. He was the first African American to serve as Illinois Comptroller, and later, as Attorney General. In 2009, he became the first African American to represent Illinois in the U.S. Senate, succeeding Barack Obama. Although his appointment was controversial due to the circumstances surrounding Governor Rod Blagojevich's investigation, Burris went on to serve as the Senate's only African American member until November 2010.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Burris is married to Berlean M. Burris and is the father of two adult children, Rolanda S. Burris and Roland W. Burris II. He also has a grandson, Roland T. Burris. Notably, Burris has built a mausoleum for himself in Oak Woods Cemetery, which has sparked both admiration and controversy.

Legacy and Impact

Roland Burris's legacy is marked by his commitment to public service and his determination to break down racial barriers in Illinois politics. His appointment to the U.S. Senate was a historic moment, symbolizing the progress made in the fight for racial equality. Although his tenure was brief, Burris's contributions to Illinois politics and his trailblazing spirit continue to inspire future generations of politicians and leaders.

Career Highlights

Awards and Honors

Controversies and Public Perception

Burris's appointment to the U.S. Senate was marred by controversy surrounding Governor Rod Blagojevich's investigation, leading to questions about the legitimacy of his appointment. Despite this, Burris's legacy as a trailblazing politician and attorney remains intact.

Timeline
1937
Born in Centralia, Illinois
Roland Burris was born on August 3, 1937, in Centralia, Illinois.
1970
Illinois State Comptroller
Burris served as the Illinois State Comptroller from 1979 to 1991, becoming the first African American to hold the office.
1990
Illinois Attorney General
In 1991, Burris was elected as the Illinois Attorney General, serving three terms until 1999.
2009
Appointed to U.S. Senate
Burris was appointed to the U.S. Senate in 2009, filling the seat vacated by Barack Obama.
2010
Retired from Politics
Burris retired from politics in 2010, after choosing not to run for re-election.
Roland Burris

Roland Burris Quiz

Roland Burris was the first African American to hold which statewide office in Illinois?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What was Roland Burriss role in Illinois politics?
Roland Burris is an American lawyer and politician who served as the 39th Illinois Attorney General and later as a United States Senator from Illinois.
What was Roland Burriss experience as a lawyer and prosecutor?
Roland Burris had a distinguished career as a lawyer and prosecutor, serving as a States Attorney and later as the Illinois Attorney General, where he focused on consumer protection and civil rights.
How did Roland Burriss appointment to the US Senate come about?
Roland Burris was appointed to the US Senate by Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich in 2009, following the resignation of Barack Obama. The appointment was controversial due to allegations of corruption against Blagojevich.
What were some of Roland Burriss notable accomplishments as Illinois Attorney General?
During his tenure as Illinois Attorney General, Roland Burris worked to protect consumers, advocate for civil rights, and promote environmental protection. He was also a strong supporter of education and healthcare reform.
How has Roland Burriss legacy been shaped by his experiences and achievements?
Roland Burriss legacy is marked by his commitment to public service, his dedication to protecting the rights of Illinois citizens, and his perseverance in the face of adversity.

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