The Case:
In 1779 the Governor of Spanish colonial Louisiana signed a document that emancipated Agnes Mathieu from slavery.
What was so special about Agnes that a Governor had to sign off on her release? Most freedom papers from the time bear only the signature of the former slaveholder notarized by a local clerk.
But Governor Bernardo de Galvez had a special interest in this case.
History Detectives heads to Louisiana to trace an epic tale of politics, war, love and loyalty. In the French Quarter, at Tulane University, and on the shelves of a local archive we discovers Governor Galvez’s pivotal role in America’s fight for freedom – both in the Revolutionary War and in a romantic story of our contributor’s past.
Spanish Influence in New Orleans
The French colony of New Orleans was ceded to the Spanish Empire in 1763 and remained under Spanish control for about 40 years. View photographic examples of Spanish influence on New Orleans’ architecture.
Related Content
Technique:
Technique:
Technique:
Related Links
Explore
-
Also in Season 8
Baker's Gold
What role did these unusual drawings play in one of the largest mass migrations in American history?
-
Also with Elyse Luray
Dutch Colonial Home
What role did these menacing forts play in the settling of this part of the West?
-
Related Investigation
GAR Photograph
How did two African Americans come to be part of this photograph in Reconstructionist-era America?
-
Related Investigation
George Washington Miniature
Did the artist paint this portrait from life, and what is its surprising connection to the abolitionist White Matlack?
-
Also with Elyse Luray
Crazy Horse Photo
Is this the only photograph of a Native American legend?
-
Also with Elyse Luray
WPA Mural Studies
Are these unusual paintings part of the biggest job creation program in America's history?
Comments
This is a place for opinions, comments, questions and discussion; a place where viewers of History Detectives can express their points of view and connect with others who value history. We ask that posters be polite and respectful of all opinions. History Detectives reserves the right to delete comments that don’t conform to this conduct. We will not respond to every post, but will do our best to answer specific questions, or address an error.