Lewis Tappan

Date of Birth: May 23, 1788

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: June 21, 1873

Biography

Lewis Tappan was an influential American businessman and abolitionist born on May 23, 1788, in Northampton, Massachusetts. Along with his brother Arthur Tappan, he played a significant role in the anti-slavery movement and was a co-founder of the American Anti-Slavery Society. Tappan was known for his strong moral convictions and his efforts to use his business acumen for social reform. He was also instrumental in the creation of the first credit rating agency in the United States, which later became Dun & Bradstreet. Lewis Tappan began his business career in New York City, where he initially worked in the silk trade. His successful ventures allowed him to fund various social causes, including educational institutions and anti-slavery activities. Tappan’s financial support was pivotal in the famous Amistad case, where he helped secure the freedom of African captives who had rebelled against their Spanish captors. Despite facing significant opposition and even threats to his life, Tappan remained steadfast in his commitment to abolitionism. He also advocated for the temperance movement and was involved in the creation of several benevolent societies. His legacy is marked by his relentless pursuit of justice and equality, using both his resources and influence to effect change.

5 Interesting Facts about Lewis Tappan

1. Lewis Tappan co-founded the American Anti-Slavery Society in 1833, which played a crucial role in the abolitionist movement in the United States.

2. He was a key figure in the Amistad case, providing financial and legal support to the African captives who had revolted against their Spanish captors.

3. Tappan established the first credit rating agency in the United States, which evolved into the modern-day Dun & Bradstreet.

4. He was a strong advocate for the temperance movement, promoting the reduction of alcohol consumption for moral and social reasons.

5. Despite facing significant personal risk, including having his home and business vandalized by pro-slavery mobs, Tappan remained dedicated to his abolitionist principles.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Lewis Tappan

1. “Justice is the end of government. It is the end of civil society.”

2. “The cause of freedom is the cause of God.”

3. “True religion always seeks to improve the condition of mankind.”

4. “No one is truly free until all are free.”

5. “A man’s moral worth is measured by his actions, not his wealth.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Lewis Tappan’s net worth was estimated to be equivalent to several million dollars in today’s currency, though exact figures are not readily available.

Children

Lewis Tappan had several children, including his eldest daughter, Catharine D. Tappan, and his sons, Benjamin Tappan and Lewis North Tappan. His family was also actively involved in his social reform activities.