Isaac D. Shadd was elected Speaker of the Mississippi House of Representatives on January 14, 1874. Born in 1837 in Delaware, Shadd was a prominent African American politician during the Reconstruction era. Before his political career in Mississippi, he worked as a printer and edited an influential newspaper in Canada. In 1870, Shadd moved to Mississippi and was elected to the legislature from Warren County in 1871. His election as Speaker marked a significant moment in the state’s history, reflecting the increasing political influence of African Americans during Reconstruction. Shadd’s legislative experience and impartial leadership were noted as assets in his role as Speaker. ?
© 2025 KnowThyHistory.com. Know Thy History
