DeWitt Clinton

Date of Birth: March 2, 1769

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: February 11, 1828

Biography

DeWitt Clinton was an influential American politician and naturalist who played a crucial role in the early development of the United States. Born on March 2, 1769, Clinton was a key advocate for the construction of the Erie Canal, which significantly boosted the economy of New York and the entire United States by providing a direct water route from the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes. He served as the Governor of New York from 1817 to 1823 and again from 1825 until his death in 1828. Clinton’s political career was marked by his forward-thinking approach to infrastructure and his dedication to public education and scientific advancement. He was also a U.S. Senator and a mayor of New York City.

5 Interesting Facts about DeWitt Clinton

1. DeWitt Clinton was a major proponent of the Erie Canal, often referred to as “Clinton’s Ditch,” which was completed in 1825 and transformed New York City into a major trade hub.

2. He was a member of the Democratic-Republican Party and later became a leading figure in the short-lived Federalist Party.

3. Clinton was known for his efforts in educational reform, helping to establish the New York Free School Society.

4. He was an amateur naturalist and contributed significantly to the early scientific community in America, including being a founding member of the Literary and Philosophical Society of New York.

5. Clinton ran for President of the United States in 1812 but lost to James Madison.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from DeWitt Clinton

1. “The soul, by an instinct stronger than reason, ever associates beauty with truth.”

2. “Industry is the parent of prosperity.”

3. “Public instruction should be the first object of government.”

4. “A wise nation preserves its records, gathers up its muniments, decorates the tombs of its illustrious dead, repairs its great public structures, and fosters national pride and love of country by perpetual references to the sacrifices and glories of the past.”

5. “Great things are not accomplished by idle dreams, but by years of patient study.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

DeWitt Clinton’s net worth is not well-documented in historical records, but as a prominent politician and advocate for major infrastructure projects, he held significant influence and power during his lifetime.

Children

DeWitt Clinton had ten children with his wives, Maria Franklin and Catherine Jones. His children included Charles Alexander Clinton, George William Clinton, and Mary Clinton, among others.