David Young (Louisiana politician) facts for kids

David Young (born February 4, 1836 – died April 19, 1907) was an important leader during a time of big change in American history. He was a farmer, a businessman, and a minister. He also served as a state legislator in Louisiana. This was during the Reconstruction era, a period after the American Civil War when the country was rebuilding. After becoming a free man, David Young became very successful in many areas, including politics.

Early Life and Freedom

David Young was born into slavery in Kentucky on February 4, 1836. He bravely ran away to Ohio to find freedom. However, he was sadly recaptured and taken to Natchez, Mississippi in 1850. He finally arrived in Vidalia, Louisiana in 1851.

Towards the end of the American Civil War, David Young worked hard to help African Americans gain the right to vote in Louisiana. This right is called suffrage.

A Leader in Louisiana Politics

David Young was elected to the Louisiana House of Representatives. He represented Concordia Parish, Louisiana from 1868 to 1874. The House of Representatives is a group of elected officials who make laws for the state.

His brother, John Young, was the sheriff of Concordia Parish during the same time. Together, they were very influential in the politics of the area. Around 1870, most of the people living in Concordia Parish, about 92.8%, were Black.

David Young also helped manage local schools. He was the treasurer for the school board from 1871 to 1873. He was also a member of the town council, helping to make decisions for the local community.

Starting a Newspaper

In 1873, David Young started a Republican newspaper called Concordia Eagle. It had four pages and its main idea was "Equal Rights to All Men." He was the editor of the newspaper for a while.

People admired David Young for his understanding of others. They said he had a special way of knowing people.

Serving in the State Senate

After his time in the House, David Young was elected to the Louisiana State Senate. He served there from 1874 to 1878. The State Senate is another important group of elected officials who help create state laws.

During his time in the Senate, he faced some challenges. He had to leave Concordia Parish for a while because of political unrest. He later worked with other political groups to try and keep some Republican seats in the government. This was a time when elections were often difficult due to violence and dishonesty.

Even though he did not keep his Senate seat in the next election, David Young stayed involved in politics. He was part of the main committee for the Republican Party in Louisiana. He also represented Concordia Parish at a special meeting to write a new state constitution.

In 1879, he ran for the House of Representatives again and was elected. However, his right to hold the seat was questioned. Even though a committee said he was allowed to serve, he was not given his seat. This happened again in 1882 when he was elected but denied his seat once more.

Life After Politics

After leaving politics, David Young became a Baptist minister in New Orleans. He led the Zion Traveller's Baptist Church.

Later Years and Legacy

David Young passed away in New Orleans on April 19, 1907. At the time of his death, he was known as "Bishop" because of his respected and dignified way of carrying himself. He was the pastor of the Plymouth Rock Baptist Church and was also the vice president of the colored Baptist convention.

See also

• African American officeholders during and following the Reconstruction era