Kamala Harris's Father: Donald Harris, a Jamaican-American Economist

Early Life and Education

Donald Harris was born in 1938 in Jamaica. He attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics in 1961. He then went on to earn a Master of Arts degree in Economics from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, in 1963.

Academic Career

After graduating with a master degree, Harris began his academic career as an assistant professor of economics at Stanford University. He became a full professor in 1972. During his tenure at Stanford, Harris specialized in econometrics and development economics. He published numerous research papers and co-authored several books on economic development.

Post-Stanford Career

Harris retired from Stanford University in 1998 as a professor emeritus. He continued to work as an economics consultant and wrote op-eds and articles on economic issues. He also served on the board of directors of several nonprofit organizations.

Personal Life

Harris met his wife, Shyamala Gopalan, while they were both students at UC Berkeley. They married in 1963 and had two daughters, Kamala and Maya. The family lived in Berkeley, California, until their daughters' early childhood, when they moved to Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Harris and Gopalan later divorced in 1972.

Kamala Harris's Jamaican Roots

Harris's identity has been largely shaped by his Jamaican background. He has spoken openly about his pride in his heritage and the influence it has had on his life and work. He has also been an outspoken advocate for civil rights and social justice.

Conclusion

Donald Harris is a Jamaican-American economist and professor emeritus at Stanford University. He is the father of Kamala Harris, the 49th and current vice president of the United States. Harris's Jamaican roots and his academic career have played a significant role in shaping his identity and his commitment to social justice.