Monday Floyd facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Monday Floyd
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Member of the Georgia House of Representatives from the Morgan County district |
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In office 1868 – 1868 Original 33 |
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Member of the Georgia House of Representatives from the Morgan County district |
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In office 1870–? |
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Personal details | |
Political party | Republican |
Monday Floyd was an important person in Georgia's history. He was a skilled carpenter. He also became a politician. He was a member of the Republican Party. He served in the Georgia House of Representatives. This was during a special time called the Reconstruction Era. This period happened right after the American Civil War.
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Who Was Monday Floyd?
Monday Floyd was one of many African Americans who had been freed from slavery. After the war, these individuals gained the right to vote. They could also run for public office. Monday Floyd was elected to serve his community. He faced many challenges because of this. Some people did not want Black leaders in government.
Becoming a Representative
Monday Floyd was first elected in 1868. He was one of 29 African American lawmakers chosen in Georgia. But, 25 of these elected officials were stopped from taking their seats. They were not allowed to serve. This was a difficult time for them.
After some time, the United States government stepped in. They helped make sure the elected officials could serve. Monday Floyd was finally able to take his seat. This happened after the 1870 election.
Facing Challenges and Threats
Monday Floyd lived in Madison, Georgia. In December 1870, he faced a serious threat. A group called the Ku Klux Klan attacked him. They shot him while he was in his home.
The Klan was a group that used violence. They wanted to stop African Americans from having rights. They sent Monday Floyd a threatening note. It said there would be no more "Negro" lawmakers in Georgia. They also told him to leave town.
Three days after the shooting, the Klan returned. Monday Floyd had to leave his home. He fled to the city of Atlanta to be safe.
Speaking Out for Justice
In 1871, Monday Floyd did something brave. He spoke to the U.S. Congress. He told them about the threats he had received. He shared his story to help others understand. His testimony showed the challenges faced by Black leaders. It highlighted the violence they endured during Reconstruction.