The Dawn of Black Suffrage

The Louisiana Old State Capitol announces an upcoming lecture that delves into the crucial period of Black suffrage in the state of Louisiana. Renowned historian, R. Blakeslee “Blake” Gilpin, Associate Professor of History and Director of Graduate Studies at Tulane University in New Orleans, will lead the discussion. Professor Gilpin's lecture will explore the unprecedented explosion of Black political participation and success during the dawn of Black suffrage in Louisiana, a historical moment that has left an indelible mark on the state's political landscape.

The talk will not only shed light on the heights of Black political achievement but also delve into the violent and political means employed to disenfranchise Black Louisianans, starting in the 1860s. This lecture marks the second installment in a series on Reconstruction, paving the way for a new permanent exhibit titled "A More Perfect Union," set to open in 2025.

Funded by a Rebirth grant from the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, the project "A More Perfect Union" is a pioneering endeavor in the state, offering a deep and insightful look into the Civil War and Reconstruction era. This exhibition will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of a frequently overlooked period in history.

Professor Gilpin's work spans from the slave rebellions of the eighteenth century to contemporary struggles with the echoes of American slavery. Notable among his authored books is "John Brown Still Lives!: America's Long Reckoning With Violence, Equality, and Change" (University of North Carolina Press, 2011).

Don't miss this unique opportunity to engage with a distinguished scholar and gain insights into a pivotal period in Louisiana's history. Join us on February 27 at 6 pm at the Louisiana Old State Capitol in Baton Rouge for a thought-provoking evening. Doors open at 5:30 pm.

This program is funded under a grant from the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.