He was the governer of Spanish Louisianna. He sided with the Patriots. In secret, he supplied medicine, muskets, cloth, and gunpowder to the Patriots. Although when Spain entered the war, his role increased. He took British forts alone the Mississippi River and in the Gulf of Mexico. One of the most important accomplishments of his is the fact he drove out British from West Florida. Galvestone, Texas, is named after him.
You can wear long sleeve shirts or jackets for added protection when wearing protective gloves. Additionally, you can wear safety goggles or a face shield to protect your eyes and face from any hazards.
Depends a bit on which kind of riding you prefer. For XC it's helmet, jersey, bike tights, gloves, shoes, water, basic tools and flat fixing stuff. For DH/AM people usually use full face helmets, knee/shin guards, maybe elbow/shoulder pads, long sleeve, long legged clothes, and glves with more padding. Dirt/trick riders are somewhere inbetween.