Portrait of Kamala Harris
Biography for young readers

Kamala Harris

Being the first woman and first person of Black and South Asian heritage to serve as Vice President of the United States

Lived
1964-present
From
American
Reading time
About 2 min
Reading guide
Independent-reader guide

Watch Kamala Harris's story unfold

Portrait of Kamala Harris
01

Early Life

Kamala Devi Harris was born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California.

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Why this story matters

A life worth remembering

Being the first woman and first person of Black and South Asian heritage to serve as Vice President of the United States

Think about it

What did you notice?

  • Which moment changed the direction of this person's life?
  • Which achievement or idea do you think mattered most?
  • What is one question you would ask them?
Prefer to read? Open the complete biography transcript

Early Life

Kamala Devi Harris was born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California. Her parents were immigrants who cared deeply about education and helping others. From a young age, Kamala learned the importance of standing up for fairness and kindness.

She grew up loving books and asking lots of questions. Kamala also enjoyed music and spending time with her family. These early years helped shape her confidence and curiosity about the world.

Education and Learning

Kamala worked hard in school and went on to college at Howard University, a historically Black university in Washington, D.C. There, she studied political science and economics. She also joined clubs and made lifelong friends.

After college, Kamala became a lawyer by attending law school. She learned how laws work and how they can protect people. This education prepared her for a life of public service.

Career and Achievements

Kamala began her career as a prosecutor, a lawyer who works to make communities safer. She later became the Attorney General of California, leading a large team of lawyers and helping to protect consumers and families.

In 2017, Kamala became a United States Senator. As a senator, she listened to people’s concerns and worked on laws to improve education, healthcare, and safety.

In 2021, Kamala Harris made history by becoming Vice President of the United States. She served as Vice President from 2021 to 2025, becoming the first woman, the first Black American, and the first South Asian American to hold this important job.

Why She Matters

Kamala Harris shows kids that dreams can come true with hard work and courage. She often talks about believing in yourself and helping others along the way.

Her story reminds us that leadership comes in many forms and that everyone’s voice matters.

Legacy and Inspiration

Kamala Harris has already made an important place in American history. She encourages young people to stay curious, work hard, and always aim to make the world a better place.

Did you know?

Fun facts about Kamala Harris

  1. Kamala Harris’s name means "lotus" in Sanskrit, a flower that symbolizes strength.

  2. She loves cooking and often makes meals for family and friends.

  3. Kamala went to a college known for its strong traditions and school spirit.

  4. She enjoys listening to music while relaxing or traveling.

Learn & remember

Make the story yours

2 min read · Independent-reader guide

Three things to remember

  1. Known for: Being the first woman and first person of Black and South Asian heritage to serve as Vice President of the United States
  2. Lived: 1964-present
  3. From: American

Words to know

Open a word for a short explanation.

economics

The study of how people make, share, and use money and resources.

Quick check

What do you remember?

Think of an answer, then open each card to check.

What is Kamala Harris best known for?

Being the first woman and first person of Black and South Asian heritage to serve as Vice President of the United States

When did Kamala Harris live?

1964-present

What place or nationality is connected to this story?

American

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