BLACK AMERICANS WANT AFRICAN COLONIES LOST BY GERMANY
Brest, France (JFK+50) On December 12, 1918, The New York World reported that leaders of the African-American community were preparing to ask that the Peace Conference "turn back to native control the German colonies in Africa for national organization."
The World stated that the leaders would have Colonel Edward House* present their idea to the Peace Conference. The proposal was based on the "right of self-determination clause" in President Woodrow Wilson's peace terms.
The New York World also reported that American black citizens would also attempt to put before the Peace Conference "the treatment of the negro in the Southern States."
*Edward Mandell House (1858-1938) was born in Houston, Texas & became a diplomat & adviser to Woodrow Wilson. Although nicknamed Colonel, EMH did not serve in the military. He turned down a cabinet position, but advised President Wilson on foreign affairs. EMH was provided living space at the White House during Wilson's tenure.
SOURCE
"Negroes Ask For African Colonies Lost by Germany," by Louis Seihold, New York World, December 12, 1918.
Edward Mandell House (1920)
Library of Congress
Prints & Photographs Division
