Legislators passed a bill which read, “all free persons of color had to apply for a freedom license.” In addition to applying for freedom, Blacks also had to prove they met the requirements required to be free. This was nearly impossible. The law was passed mainly because Missouri slave owners were worried free Blacks would move into the state and influence existing slaves to rebel. A later law passed in 1847 was even more restrictive. It prohibited free Blacks from entering Missouri. It also outlawed the education of Blacks already here.
Based upon content from the book Missouri 365: This Day in Missouri History by John W. Brown, broadcaster and Missouri historian. Get your copy at Reedy Press.
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March 14, 1835
On this date in Missouri history, legislators pass a bill which reads, “all free persons of color had to apply for a freedom license.” That law meant that not only did African Americans have to apply for freedom, but they also had to prove they met the requirements to be free, which was nearly impossible.
March 14, 1871
Barton County Missouri filed a lawsuit against Wyatt Earp claiming that he did not surrender the tax money and fees he had collected for local schools.
March 14, 1859
The city of Fulton was incorporated on this date in Missouri history.