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 with Elyse Luray
Mouse Toy
Could this tiny toy labeled 'Micky' be the original Mickey Mouse?
-
Also with Elyse Luray
Mexican Currency
What role did this money play in the Mexican Revolution?
-
Related Investigation
Face Jug
What does this ceramic face reveal about the Middle Passage and a captive people’s search for identity?
-
Related Investigation
Preston Brook's Riding Crop
Was this riding crop a gift from Jefferson Davis as a reward for attacking a political opponent?
-
Also in this episode
WB Cartoons
What can this curious artwork tell us about some of our most beloved cartoon characters?
-
Also in Season 8
Stalag 17 Portrait
What happened to the artist of this portrait made in a German POW camp?
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.