Leon Julian Davis (November 21, 1905
Background
Davis was born in Pinsk, Russian Empire, on November 21, 1906. At the age of 15 he settled with his Russian-speaking family in Hartford, Connecticut, where he attended public schools and learned English. In 1927 his family moved to New York City. After two years at Columbia University's pharmacy school, he left to become a drug store clerk.
During the Vietnam War, Local 1199 took an early anti-war position. It also supported the civil rights movement.
Two books about the union, Upheaval in the Quiet Zone and Not for Bread Alone examine the deep, almost patriarchal connection between Davis and Local 1199.