Norton I, Emperor of the United States and Protector of Mexico

In 1859, a San Francisco eccentric proclaimed himself "Emperor of these United States." His colorful existence leads us all to consider how we see reality. Joshua Norton's life is history that deserves to be remembered.

This is original content based on research by The History Guy. Images in the Public Domain are carefully selected and provide illustration. As images of actual events are sometimes not available, images of similar objects and events are used for illustration.

All events are portrayed in historical context and for educational purposes. No images or content are primarily intended to shock and disgust. Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it. Non censuram.

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Script by HCW

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[colmhain]

If I were rich, I'd be eccentric. But since I'm poor, I'm just crazy.

[mikejuba]

He may have had a "delusional disorder", but his statement regarding our elected officials was, and still is, spot on.

[AliasUndercover]

No one ever told him he wasn't, so he was. He's one of my favorite historical loonies.

[BillB]

Emperor Norton is one of my favorite historical figures. Thank you for this. When asked if anyone in my family suffers from mental illness I reply, "No, we enjoy every minute of it."

[nikburton]

I remember reading about Norton years ago. Gotta love a man who declares himself awesome and has no one argue with him.

[dsnodgrass]

He was the beneficiary of a unique quirk in the American nature of the time: in a country founded on the equality of men and the scorning of kings, the romance around monarchical gravitas and dignity had yet to fully die. The citizens humored him because his imperial deportment made them feel important in their interactions with him. It was a charade, but a harmless one; and it pleased the city's folk of all levels to be entertained with it. If one but sees the cumulative effect the game had in lightening the weary load of an uncomfortably growing city, any questions of his sanity or his honesty are beside the point.

[kenthawley]

I have read about Emperor Norton before, but your video brings such a great eccentric to life. There was a time when communities supported their eccentrics. Maybe we thought, "There, but for the grace of God, go I." Whatever, the case, they were OUR eccentrics, and we took care of them and defended them when necessary. Thank you for this excellent piece of American history that deserves to be remembered because it shows us how to treat each other.

[bigblue]

Nice to see that an English eccentric can find a home in San Francisco. I do hope the bridge is renamed in his honour. Considering how many get such things, despite them having a the very least a somewhat checked past, it would be nice for someone to receive the honour who actually wanted only the best for his fellow citizens.


I did know about Norton but not in any great depth so it is nice to get a fuller biography of him. I have often said if I learn something new I have had a good day. Today was a very good day.

[hagamapama]

Never heard that story about the rioters and the Chinese. That was an act that befits Royalty!

[JonathanCarroll]

Being a 5th Generation San Franciscan, born and raised. This had me cry a little with happiness.
Thankyou.

[deedeewinfrey]

I wish you had been my History teacher in high school
😁❤

[JazznRealHipHop]

Can you imagine living in that time and someone telling you "Hey, show a little respect! That's the emperor of the United States!"

[Dsschuh]

Such a beautiful presentation of a most interesting individual. THG - I cried at the end over your wonderful summation of "Emperor" Norton. Thank you.

[steveclark]

Who can really say what is normal and not normal ! He sounded like a good man ! May he Rest In Peace forever !

[somnathchowdhury]

May all Kings, president, dictators follow Emperor Norton I. Thank you for sharing such a wonderful history 🙏

[damilla]

"Too much sanity, might be madness." Thank you for telling the tale of Emperor Norton in such a sympathetic, and understanding, manner. His eccentricities were not mere folly, they spoke to the people and their needs. Everything I have ever heard or read of him told of a man of principle, caring equally for all. Would that leaders of the world would heed his example.

[matthewjones]

Norton I is mentioned in quite a few old time radio shows, especially ones dealing with the Old West. He was truly eccentric, and certainly unforgettable.

[robertspencer]

Thanks. I've been personally aware of Emperor Norton for well over a decade but you've done a wonderful job highlighting so many facets of his life. Even a few trinkets I wasn't aware of and in only twelve minutes!!!

[John-ruud]

Reality is for those who lack imagination.

[icebob]

Here’s to The emperor of the United States at protector of Mexico