In the years 1859-1880 in the US "rules" Emperor of the United States - Norton first

Joshua Abraham Norton - a resident of the United States, proclaimed himself emperor in 1859, the United States and assumed the title of His Imperial Majesty Emperor Norton I of the United States and Protector of Mexico.

Joshua Norton was born in London, childhood and youth spent in South Africa. In 1849, Norton emigrated to San Francisco, having inherited his father's property is worth 40 thousand dollars. Norton was a businessman, not yet bankrupt, putting all the money in the Peruvian rice. After losing a lawsuit in which Norton tried to cancel his rice contract, he left San Francisco. A few years later he returned Norton probably corrupted in mind, and proclaimed himself emperor of the United States.

Clothes of the emperor were old army boots and his coat, he went on foot or rode a bicycle, patrolling the streets and checking, the police do their job. When the emperor saw that someone does a good deed, the person assigned to this noble title.

When the people of San Francisco met the emperor, they paid homage to him appropriate honors. As a rule, the emperor was not in possession of the money and they were not necessary for it. Emperor free food in the restaurants and in the shops were given free things he liked. In the restaurants and shops that are popular with the emperor, he placed a plaque with the inscription "to attend his Majesty the Emperor Norton first" - the number of customers in these restaurants and shops increased (in some restaurants of the city such signs have now).

The city is also paid to the emperor housing. Sometimes the emperor paying bills, specially made for him, with his own image; notes with pleasure Accept and have a collector's value. Banks such bonds cashed in US dollars, when they are presented for redemption. The maturity date of bonds was listed in 1880. On any theatrical premiere for the emperor and his two dogs were reserved three seats. The trio has also been allowed to attend the meetings of the Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, and listen to pundits debate.

8 th January 1880, during his usual walk the city streets Norton collapsed and died. His funeral was attended by 30 thousand people.

Source: ru.wikipedia.org



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