Benjamin Gratz Brown was an American politician and a prominent figure in the 19th century. Born on May 28, 1826, in Lexington, Kentucky, he became known for his role as the 24th governor of Missouri from 1871 to 1873. Brown was a member of the Republican Party and later the Liberal Republican Party, advocating for civil rights and social reforms. In addition to his governorship, Brown served in the U.S. House of Representatives and was a key supporter of the Union during the Civil War. He was also involved in various business ventures and was a strong proponent of education and infrastructure development in Missouri.