Maurice Ferre Biography

Maurice Ferre

former mayor of Miami
Born: June 23, 1935
Birthplace: Ponce, Puerto Rico

Born in Puerto Rico, Ferre attended the University of Miami. His career in politics began in 1966, when he became a Florida State Representative. He then served as the commissioner of Miami, (1967–1970). In 1973, he was elected mayor of Miami, becoming the first Hispanic mayor of a major U.S. city. A Democrat, he served as mayor for twelve years. Ferre has also worked as a banker and business consultant and has held various research and teaching posts.