In December 1872, P.B.S. Pinchback became the acting governor of Louisiana, making him the first person of African descent to serve as governor of a U.S. state. He held the office for 35 days.
Born Free, Raised Fighting
Born May 10, 1837, in Macon, Georgia, Pinchback made his way to New Orleans in 1862 and raised companies for the Union Army's all-Black 1st Louisiana Native Guards.
From Soldier to Governor
He won election to the Louisiana State Senate in 1868, became lieutenant governor, then acting governor when Henry Warmoth was impeached. He also founded the Louisianian newspaper and helped establish Southern University.
Dirty Coast Connection
Congo Square honors where Black New Orleanians built culture against impossible odds. Be A New Orleanian Wherever You Are.
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