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Robert C. DeLarge
Robert C. De Large - Brady-Handy.jpg
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from South Carolina's 2nd district
In office
March 4, 1871 - January 24, 1873
Preceded by Christopher C. Bowen
Succeeded by Alonzo J. Ransier
Member of the South Carolina House of Representatives from Charleston County
In office
November 24, 1868 – March 1, 1870
Personal details
Born (1842-03-15)March 15, 1842
Aiken, South Carolina
Died February 14, 1874(1874-02-14) (aged 31)
Charleston, South Carolina
Political party Republican
Profession Farmer, politician

Robert Carlos De Large (March 15, 1842 – February 14, 1874) was an important American politician from South Carolina. He was a member of the Republican Party. He served in the United States House of Representatives from 1871 to 1873. Before that, he was a delegate to the state's constitutional convention in 1868. He also served in the South Carolina House of Representatives.

Robert De Large's Early Life

Robert De Large was born in Aiken, South Carolina, on March 14, 1842. His parents were free people of color. This meant they were not enslaved. His father was a tailor, and his mother was a seamstress. They wanted Robert to get a good education. So, they sent him to primary school in North Carolina. After that, he returned to Charleston. He graduated from Wood High School there.

After school, Robert De Large became a tailor, like his father. He also worked as a farmer. As a young man, he joined the Brown Fellowship Society in Charleston. This group was for free people of color. They were often skilled workers and leaders in their community.

Robert De Large's Political Career

Robert De Large became very active in politics after the American Civil War. In 1868, he was chosen as a delegate. This meant he helped write South Carolina's new state constitution. That same year, he was elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives. He served one term there.

In 1870, he became the State Land Commissioner. He also helped manage the state's money. Later that year, he was elected to the United States House of Representatives. This was a big step in his political journey.

Serving in Congress

Robert De Large served in the U.S. House of Representatives from March 4, 1871. He worked there until January 24, 1873. During his time, there was a challenge to his election. Another Republican, Christopher C. Bowen, said there were problems with the votes.

The House of Representatives looked into the election. They found many issues on both sides. It was hard to tell who truly won. They also found that De Large held two state jobs in South Carolina. These jobs were not allowed while he was a congressman. So, on January 18, 1873, Congress decided the seat was empty.

Later Life and Legacy

After leaving Congress, Robert De Large continued to serve his community. He worked as a local magistrate. This is like a local judge. He passed away in Charleston on February 14, 1874. He was only 31 years old. He is buried in the Brown Fellowship Graveyard. Robert De Large was an important figure during a time of great change in American history.

See also

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