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Leidesdorff’s Legacy: Land and Struggle

By Damian Bacich

During his short life, William Alexander Leidesdorff accumulated great wealth. Yet, what happened to his wealth after he died is a story in itself.  The Aftermath of Leidesdorff’s Death In addition to his riches, Leidesdorff left many debts. Many of those were a result of his financing of businesses and other ventures like Fremont’s expeditions.  […]

Filed Under: 4th Grade, Black History, Gold Rush, U.S. Annexation Tagged With: Black History, Folsom, Gold Rush, Ranchos

San Francisco’s Overlooked Pioneer: William Alexander Leidesdorff

By Damian Bacich

William Alexander Leidesdorff

Although little known today, the name of William Alexander Leidesdorff is enshrined on streets in San Francisco and a town along the American River. He was also one of California’s pioneers of African descent and instrumental in bringing about the American annexation of California.

Filed Under: 4th Grade, Black History, Mexican Rule, U.S. Annexation Tagged With: Black History, Gold Rush, Leidesdorff, San Francisco

I’m Dr. Damian Bacich, and I started the California Frontier Project. Learn more about me and the project here.

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Latest Articles

  • Three Californianas You Should Know
  • Mission San Francisco Solano: 10 Interesting Facts
  • Leidesdorff’s Legacy: Land and Struggle
  • San Francisco’s Overlooked Pioneer: William Alexander Leidesdorff
  • The Luiseño of Southern California

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