American politician, born, of African parents, in Macon, GA, on the 10th of May 1837. He enlisted in the Union army at New Orleans in 1862, and was detailed to assist in raising a regiment, but, owing to his color, he was forced to resign, September 3, 1863. Subsequently he was authorized by General Nathaniel P. Banks to raise a company of colored cavalry. In 1867 he was made inspector of customs at New Orleans, was elected state senator in 1868, and in 1869 was appointed register of the land-office. He established the New Orleans Louisianian in 1870, and in the following year was elected president pro tem. of the state senate and lieutenant-governor, to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Oscar Dunn. He was nominated for governor in 1872, but in the interest of party peace withdrew, and was elected to Congress on the same ticket. In 1873 he was chosen United States Senator, but after three years’ debate his seat was disallowed. Mr. Pinchback became surveyor of customs at New Orleans in 1882, and was twice a trustee of Southern University. He was admitted to the bar in 1886.
