Born May 6, 1922
Baltimore, Maryland

Civil rights leader

Gloria Richardson was the controversial, charismatic, and fearless leader of the civil rights movement in Cambridge, Maryland. Her boldness in demanding complete equality for all of Cambridge’s citizens, regardless of race, and her willingness to back up her words with actions, earned her the respect and admiration of many African Americans and the ire of many whites. Indeed, white residents of Cambridge tried twice to have Richardson committed, claiming she was insane. Often referred to as “General Richardson” in a civil rights struggle called the “Battle of Cambridge,” Richardson advocated nonviolent direct action but did not dissuade her followers from taking up arms for self-defense.

Member of a prominent family

Richardson was born on May 6, 1922, in Baltimore, Maryland, the only child of John Edwards Hayes and Mabel Pauline St. Clair Hayes. Her family...