Basil LeFlore facts for kids

Basil LeFlore (born around 1811, died October 15, 1886) was an important leader of the Choctaw Nation. He was the last person elected to serve as their governor before the American Civil War. He served from 1859 to 1860. After his time as governor, the Choctaw Nation started calling their main leader a "chief" instead of a "governor." Later in his life, Basil LeFlore worked as the nation's auditor, checking their financial records, until he passed away.

Basil LeFlore: A Choctaw Leader

Early Life and Education

Basil LeFlore had both Choctaw and French family roots. However, he grew up fully as a Choctaw person with his mother's family. In the Choctaw culture, children were considered part of their mother's family. This meant they got their social standing from her side.

Basil LeFlore went to school at a mission called Brainard in Mississippi. He also spent several years studying at the Johnson Indian School in Kentucky. This shows he received a good education for his time.

Leading the Choctaw Nation

In 1831, the United States government forced the Choctaw people to leave their homes in Mississippi. This happened because of a law called the Indian Removal Act. Basil LeFlore moved with his people to a new area, which was then called Indian Territory. Today, this area is part of Oklahoma.

After moving, Basil LeFlore quickly became a respected leader among his people. He held important positions in their councils. He was chosen as the governor of the Choctaw Nation, serving from 1859 to 1860.

Basil LeFlore was a member of the Methodist Church. He was known for being well-educated and for adopting some customs from European-American society. The Choctaw are one of the Five Civilized Tribes. This name was given to several Native American tribes in the Southeast who adopted certain ways of life from their American neighbors.