Kamala Harris
Kamala Harris
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Overview

Kamala Devi Harris is an American politician and attorney who has dedicated her life to public service. From her early days as a prosecutor to her historic ascent to the Vice Presidency, her career has been marked by groundbreaking achievements and a commitment to justice and equality. This timeline highlights some of the key moments and periods that have shaped her life and career.
Main Milestones
Birth in Oakland, California
October 20, 1964
Kamala Devi Harris was born in Oakland, California, to Shyamala Gopalan, a cancer researcher who immigrated from India, and Donald Harris, an economist who immigrated from Jamaica. Her multicultural background deeply influenced her worldview and later political career, shaping her understanding of diverse communities and the challenges they face.
Graduation from Howard University
1986
Harris graduated from Howard University, a historically Black university in Washington, D.C., with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and economics. Her time at Howard was formative, exposing her to the richness and complexity of the African American experience and solidifying her commitment to social justice.
Graduation from UC Hastings College of the Law
1989
Harris earned her Juris Doctor (JD) degree from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law. This marked the beginning of her legal career and paved the way for her future roles as a prosecutor and Attorney General.
Prosecutor in Alameda County and San Francisco
1990 - 2003
Harris began her career as a prosecutor in Alameda County, California. She later joined the San Francisco District Attorney's Office, where she specialized in prosecuting sex crimes, child abuse, and homicide cases. This experience provided her with firsthand knowledge of the criminal justice system and its impact on individuals and communities.
District Attorney of San Francisco
2004 - 2011
Harris served as the District Attorney of San Francisco, becoming the first woman and the first African American to hold the position. During her tenure, she implemented innovative programs aimed at reducing recidivism and addressing the root causes of crime.
Attorney General of California
2011 - 2017
Harris was elected Attorney General of California, making her the first woman and the first African American to serve as the state's top lawyer. As Attorney General, she focused on issues such as consumer protection, criminal justice reform, and environmental protection.
U.S. Senator from California
2017 - 2021
Harris was elected to the United States Senate, representing the state of California. In the Senate, she served on several committees, including the Intelligence Committee, the Judiciary Committee, and the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. She quickly gained a reputation as a sharp and effective legislator.
Vice President of the United States
2021 - 2025
Kamala Harris made history by becoming the first female, first African American, and first Asian American Vice President of the United States. Serving alongside President Joe Biden, she plays a key role in shaping the administration's policies and representing the country on the world stage.