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(POLITICS—BRUCE, BLANCHE KELSO.)
Carte-de-visite of a Reconstruction
Senator.
Some slight discoloration to the emulsion, but still a very good, clear image.
New Orleans: Washburn, circa 1870-1875
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Blanche K. Bruce (1841-1898) was born a slave in Prince Edward County, VA. He was the son of
his master who sent him to school to be educated along with his half-brother. He became the first and
only black Reconstruction senator to serve a full term. On February 14, 1879, Bruce presided over
the United States Senate, becoming the first African-American (and the only former slave) to do so.
POLITICS
LOTS 439-444