Jonathan Jasper Wright
Biography
Jonathan Jasper Wright was an American attorney, educator, and jurist who became the first African American to serve on a state supreme court in the United States. Born free in Pennsylvania, he studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1866, becoming one of the first Black lawyers in the country. During Reconstruction, Wright moved to South Carolina where he served as a legal advisor to freedmen and helped establish schools for formerly enslaved people. On February 6, 1870, he was elected by the South Carolina General Assembly to the state Supreme Court, where he served with distinction until 1877. Wright was known for his integrity, legal scholarship, and commitment to equal justice. After Reconstruction ended and white supremacists regained power, he faced persecution but continued practicing law until his death.
Key Achievements
- 1
First African American to serve on any state Supreme Court in U.S. history (1870)
- 2
One of the first Black attorneys admitted to the Pennsylvania bar
- 3
Helped establish schools for freedmen in South Carolina during Reconstruction
- 4
Served on South Carolina Supreme Court for seven years with distinction
- 5
Advocated for civil rights and equal protection under the law
Birth Date
February 11, 1840
Death Date
February 19, 1885