George Leonard Clarke was an American politician who served as the 10th mayor of Providence, Rhode Island from June 1869 until June 1870.
Occupation
politician
Position held
Rhode Island state senator, member of the Rhode Island House of Representatives
Citizenship
United States
Born
August 10, 1813
Died
February 11, 1890
Overview
George Leonard Clarke (August 10, 1813 – February 11, 1890) was an American politician who served as the 10th mayor of Providence, Rhode Island from June 1869 until June 1870.
Early life
George L. Clarke was born in Norton, Massachusetts. His parents were Reverend Pitt Clarke, a well-known pastor of the First Congregational Society in Newtown, and Maria (Simpson) Clarke. His schooling was a combination of home schooling from his parents; a few months spent at a public school in Norton; and "one or two quarters" in a private academy. Upon turning 16, he left school and worked in a store in Providence. He supplemented his education by attending public lectures known as "Lyceum Lectures".
Clarke was a staunch and outspoken abolitionist from an early age, and became well-known throughout the state for his anti-slavery views, even in a time when such views were not popular.
Political career
