Louis A. Martinet facts for kids

Louis André Martinet (born December 28, 1849 – died June 7, 1917) was an important person in Louisiana history. He was a lawyer, a newspaper publisher, and even a doctor. He also worked as a civil rights activist and served in the state government during a time called the Reconstruction era. This was a period after the American Civil War when the country was rebuilding and trying to give equal rights to all citizens.

Early Life and Education

Louis André Martinet was born on December 28, 1849, in St. Martinville, Louisiana. His parents were Hipolite Martinet and Marie Louise Benoit. He grew up to be a very educated person.

He became a lawyer in Louisiana in December 1875. The next year, in 1876, he earned his law degree from Straight University Law School. Later in his life, in the 1890s, he even went on to get a medical degree from the Flint Medical College in New Orleans. This shows he was dedicated to learning and helping others in many ways.

Fighting for Civil Rights

Louis A. Martinet was a strong voice for civil rights. He believed that everyone should be treated equally, no matter their race.

The Comité des Citoyens

He was a key member of a group called the Comité des Citoyens, which means "Committee of Citizens." This group worked hard to fight against unfair laws that separated people based on their race. These laws were known as "segregation" laws.

One of the most famous actions of the Comité des Citoyens was their challenge to segregation on public transportation. They helped a man named Homer Plessy to get arrested. This was a planned event to test a law that forced Black and white people to sit in separate train cars.

The Plessy v. Ferguson Case

This case went all the way to the highest court in the country, the Supreme Court. It became known as Plessy vs. Ferguson. Sadly, the Supreme Court decided that "separate but equal" facilities were allowed. This decision made segregation legal for many years across the United States. Even though the ruling was a setback, Martinet and the Comité des Citoyens bravely stood up for what they believed was right.

Publishing The New Orleans Crusader

Martinet also used his skills as a publisher to fight for equality. He published a newspaper called The New Orleans Crusader from 1889 to 1896. This newspaper was an important tool for sharing news and ideas that opposed segregation and supported civil rights.

Public Service and Career

Louis A. Martinet served his community in many ways. He was a state representative in the Louisiana House of Representatives. He represented St. Martin Parish from 1872 to 1875. As a state representative, he helped make laws for the people of Louisiana.

He also worked as a notary, which is someone who can legally witness signatures on important documents. He started his notary business in 1888 and continued it until he passed away. In 1879, he was appointed to the City Board of School Directors. This role meant he helped make decisions about schools in the city.

Family Life

In 1882, Louis A. Martinet married Miss Leonora V. Miller. They had two children together, but sadly, one of their children died when they were very young.

Lasting Impact

Louis André Martinet passed away in 1917. His work and dedication to civil rights left a lasting impact. The Louis A. Martinet Legal Society is named after him. This society continues his legacy by working to support Black judges and promote justice. For example, in 1984, the society helped organize efforts to elect more Black judges in New Orleans.