This history-making mayor was born in Calvert, Texas, December 27, 1917. His parents were sharecroppers. In 1924, the family moved to Los Angeles. His father worked as a porter for the railroad and also as a crew member on an ocean liner. His mother worked as a domestic. The family was rich in moral and Christian values. His mother was a believer in the Golden Rule and taught her children to live by it.

Bradley learned about racism early. At 10 years old a playmate said that he could no longer play with him because he was colored. Racism was something he would meet with again and again. It only made him stronger and more determined to succeed.

Bradley excelled in sports and academics. His gift as a mediator set him apart from others. He was a police officer for 20 years. Tom Bradley became the 1st Black Mayor of a major metropolitan city when he was elected in the 1970's. Bradley spent four terms as mayor of Los Angeles. He served Los Angeles with great pride and dignity.

Tom Bradley became a "World Citizen" traveling the world to bring business to LA. Bradley changed the skyline of Los Angeles and brought the 1984 Olympics to LA without spending any of the city's revenues. The Olympic Games turned a profit for the city.

Bradley the grandson of slaves, was a first in many things. He paved ways for many people to follow. Bradley was the first black man to become a Los Angeles Police lieutenant, he was the first black man to be a member of the city council and then became major for an un- precedented 20 years. The Black community knew him personally, he was approachable.

For 20 years he built a city for all people. This gentle-giant gave 51 years of service to the "City of Angels".