Our great State of Nevada figured prominently in the fight for freedom for blacks during the Civil War. When Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, limiting the spread of slavery and ending its practice in the country the battle had just begun. It wouldn’t be til 1869 that Blacks would be able to vote in America. The 15th to the Constitution was first signed by its newest State, Nevada.

Only 3 years after Nevada had gained statehood in 1864 becoming the 36th state, did it make its mark by becoming the first signer to the 15th Amendment of the Constitution. This act would ensure Blacks were fully enfranchised as Americans to exercise their right to vote.