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Today in History: William Woods Holden impeached as North Carolina governor

3/22/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On March 22, 1871, William Woods Holden, the Governor of North Carolina, became the first U.S. state governor to be impeached and removed from office. His impeachment marked a significant moment in American political history during the Reconstruction Era, highlighting the tensions and challenges faced by state leaders in enforcing laws and maintaining order.

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Story summary

On March 22, 1871, William Woods Holden, the Governor of North Carolina, became the first U.S. state governor to be impeached and removed from office. His impeachment marked a significant moment in American political history during the Reconstruction Era, highlighting the tensions and challenges faced by state leaders in enforcing laws and maintaining order.