Eli Barnes facts for kids

Eli Barnes was an important leader in Georgia. He served in the Georgia Assembly. This was like being a lawmaker for the state. He was a member of the Republican Party. This was during a time called the Reconstruction Era. This period was right after the American Civil War.

Eli Barnes was an African American man. He had been a slave before the war. After gaining his freedom, he worked as a mechanic. In 1868, people in Hancock County, Georgia elected him. He became their voice in the state government. He served in the 80th Georgia General Assembly. He also worked on a special group called the Committee on Manufactures. This group likely helped with making things in the state. He served one term in office.

Standing Up for Rights

Eli Barnes was brave and spoke out for others. In 1869, he asked for help. He wanted military groups to protect a school for Black children. This was very important for their safety.

Because he stood up for what was right, he faced challenges. He received threats from a group called the Ku Klux Klan. This group tried to scare people. They wanted to stop African Americans from having equal rights.

Eli Barnes did not give up. He shared his experiences with a special committee. This committee was part of the United States Congress. He told them about the serious threats. He also spoke about unfair actions against African Americans. These things were happening in the Southern states. His testimony helped show what was happening. It showed how important it was to protect people's rights.

See also

• William Henry Harrison (Georgia politician)