George William Curtis

Date of Birth: February 24, 1824

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: August 31, 1892

Biography

George William Curtis was an American author, editor, and public speaker, who was born on February 24, 1824, in Providence, Rhode Island. Curtis was a prominent figure in the 19th century, contributing significantly to the literary and political landscapes of the United States. His work as an editor for publications such as “Harper’s Weekly” and “Putnam’s Monthly” made him a key voice in American literature and journalism. Curtis was raised in a well-to-do family and received his early education at private schools. In 1842, he moved to Concord, Massachusetts, where he became part of the Transcendentalist movement and lived with the renowned author and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson. This experience had a profound impact on his literary and philosophical outlook. His literary career began with the publication of “Nile Notes of a Howadji” (1851), which was well-received and established him as a travel writer. He followed this with several other travel books and novels, including “The Howadji in Syria” (1852) and “Lotus-Eating” (1852). Curtis’s writings were characterized by their elegance, wit, and keen observational skills. Curtis was also an active advocate for social and political causes. He was an ardent supporter of the Republican Party and campaigned for civil service reform and women’s rights. His eloquent speeches and essays on these subjects garnered him much respect and influence. Curtis passed away on August 31, 1892, in Staten Island, New York, leaving behind a legacy of literary excellence and social advocacy.

5 Interesting Facts about George William Curtis

1. George William Curtis was a key member of the Transcendentalist movement and lived with Ralph Waldo Emerson in Concord, Massachusetts.

2. He served as the editor of “Harper’s Weekly,” where he used his platform to advocate for political and social reforms.

3. Curtis was a staunch supporter of the Republican Party and played a significant role in the civil service reform movement.

4. He was a founding member of the “National Civil Service Reform League” and worked tirelessly to eliminate corruption in government appointments.

5. Curtis delivered a famous eulogy for Abraham Lincoln, which was widely praised for its eloquence and depth of feeling.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George William Curtis

1. “A man’s country is not a certain area of land, of mountains, rivers, and woods, but it is a principle; and patriotism is loyalty to that principle.”

2. “The test of civilization is the estimate of woman.”

3. “Happiness lies first of all in health.”

4. “The service we render others is the rent we pay for our room on earth.”

5. “The new year is a moment of pause when we look back upon our past, and forward into our future.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

George William Curtis’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but as a successful author, editor, and public speaker in the 19th century, he enjoyed a comfortable lifestyle typical of an intellectual and public figure of his time.