From Poverty to History Maker: An Autobiography

by Robert A. Holmes

Overview

From Poverty to History Maker is the story of how Robert “Bob” Holmes, a former juvenile delinquent, rose from humble beginnings to become an influential voice in academics and politics. A striking testament to the power of commitment, perseverance, and hard work, this book also provides an insightful analysis of four decades of Atlanta and Georgia legislative politics from the perspective of a political insider.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780761863076
Publisher:	University Press of America
Publication date:	02/18/2014
Pages:	276
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.80(d)

About the Author

Robert A. Holmes, Emeritus Distinguished Professor of Political Science at Clark Atlanta University, earned his PHD from Columbia University at age 25. A professor and administrator at four universities, he served as president of the National Conference of Black Political Scientists and the Association of Social and Behavioral Scientists. A businessman, civic leader, and Georgia state legislator for 34 years, Holmes has received more than 100 awards and honors for his many history making accomplishments.

Table of Contents

Foreword
Preface
Acknowledgements
Chapter 1 The Early Childhood and Formative Years: Poverty and Segregation
Chapter 2 Higher Education Experiences and My Early Professional Career
Chapter 3 Civic, Political and University Activities in Atlanta
Chapter 4 The 1974 Election Campaign and Early Years in Political Office
Chapter 5 Atlanta and Georgia Politics in the 1970s and 1980s
Chapter 6 Family, University, Business and Civic Developments
Chapter 7 The Southern Center and Decline of the Political Science Program
Chapter 8 The Georgia General Assembly in the 1990s
Chapter 9 Election Reform and Other Policy Issues
Chapter 10 My Final Years in Academia, 2000-2005
Chapter 11 Partisan Politics and the Georgia Legislature
Chapter 12 The Political Struggle Over Education Reform
Chapter 13 Republican Control of the Georgia General Assembly and Adverse Impacts
Chapter 14 The Retirement Years
Index

Editorial Reviews

Bob Holmes has written a fascinating account of his life …His commitment to public service has earned him a special place in our history.

Laughlin McDonald

Told with candor, wit and sincerity, this is the compelling story of a life well lived by a small town West Virginia lad who aspired to know the world and make his mark on it…His story will be an inspiration for generations yet to come.

Mack H. Jones

If those who helped to shape it do not write Atlanta’s history, it runs the risk of being forgotten…I am not only proud that he has chronicled his life, I am grateful that he has lived a life worth sharing.

Shirley Clarke Franklin

Robert A. Holmes was able to escape the poverty of West Virginia and the "mean streets of Harlem in New York City...He succeeded in making an enormous contribution to African-American life and history.

Georgia Persons

Any person who is interested in understanding the complex and byzantine nature of politics in state legislatures, the politics of public policy making in an urban setting, and how one man was able to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles to become a success in multiple careers should read this book.

Alvetta Peterman Thomas