Mathias de Sousa facts for kids

Mathias de Sousa was a very important person in early Maryland history. He was the first Black person known to live in Maryland. Mathias de Sousa was a free man, and his family came from Africa and Portugal.

About Mathias de Sousa

Early Life and Freedom

Many people believe that Mathias de Sousa's father was born in Portugal. In the old days of colonial Maryland, people like Sousa, who had both African and European family backgrounds, were sometimes called "mulatto."

Mathias de Sousa worked as an indentured servant. This meant he agreed to work for someone, Father Andrew White, for a set number of years without pay. In return, he would get food, a place to live, and sometimes training. It is thought that Sousa was also a Catholic, like Father White, who was a Jesuit priest.

After his time as an indentured servant ended in 1638, Mathias de Sousa became a free man. He then started working as a fur trader, buying and selling animal furs. He also worked as a mariner, which means he sailed on ships.

A Voice in Maryland

In March 1641, something very important happened: Mathias de Sousa was chosen to be a representative at a meeting of the Maryland Assembly. The Assembly was like an early government group where people made laws and decisions for the colony.

Being elected as a representative showed that Sousa was no longer a servant. He was a citizen who could vote and help make important choices for Maryland. This was a big step for him and for others in the colony.

Legacy

Today, there is a special historical marker in St. Mary's City in St. Mary's County, Maryland. This marker helps people remember Mathias de Sousa and his important place in history.