Blanche K. Bruce

Blanche K. Bruce (1841-1898) was an American politician and statesman who became the first African American to serve a full term in the U.S. Senate. He also served as the Register of the Treasury during the administration of President James A. Garfield.

Born into slavery in Virginia, Bruce was freed when he was just eight years old. He moved to Missouri and worked as a schoolteacher before joining the Union Army during the Civil War. Bruce served with distinction as a member of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry, one of the first African American regiments to fight in the war.

After the war, Bruce moved to Mississippi and became involved in politics. He was a member of the Republican Party and was elected to several local and state offices, including sheriff and tax collector. In 1874, he was elected to the U.S. Senate, becoming the first African American to serve a full term in that body.

As a senator, Bruce worked to promote civil rights and to fight against discrimination and violence directed at African Americans in the South. He also championed the rights of Native Americans and supported efforts to expand education and economic opportunities for all Americans.

After leaving the Senate in 1881, Bruce was appointed by President Garfield to serve as the Register of the Treasury. In this role, he oversaw the printing and distribution of paper currency and was responsible for the safekeeping of the government's financial records.

Throughout his life, Bruce was a passionate advocate for equality and justice. He was a strong voice for African American rights and worked tirelessly to promote progress and reform. His legacy as a trailblazing statesman and champion of civil rights continues to inspire people to this day.