Gouverneur Morris

Date of Birth: January 31, 1752

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: November 6, 1816

Biography

Gouverneur Morris was an American statesman, diplomat, and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. Born into a wealthy and influential family in New York, Morris played a significant role in the American Revolution and the formation of the United States government. He was a key drafter of the United States Constitution and is credited with penning the preamble, “We the People…”. Morris was also a strong advocate for a centralized government and had a long career in public service, including serving as a U.S. Senator and Minister Plenipotentiary to France during the French Revolution. His eloquence and sharp intellect made him a prominent figure in the early years of the American republic.

5 Interesting Facts about Gouverneur Morris

1. Gouverneur Morris lost his left leg in a carriage accident in 1780, but this did not hinder his political career.

2. He had a reputation for being a strong advocate of abolition, despite owning slaves himself early in life.

3. Morris was known for his international diplomacy, particularly his time as Minister to France during the tumultuous years of the French Revolution.

4. He was one of the few members of the Constitutional Convention to speak openly against slavery, though a compromise was ultimately reached.

5. Morris was a prolific writer and his diaries provide a valuable first-hand account of the American and French Revolutions.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Gouverneur Morris

1. “Religion is the solid basis of good morals; therefore education should teach the precepts of religion, and the duties of man towards God.”

2. “I am determined that America shall be free, whatever the consequence.”

3. “If the people should elect a man of distinguished character and superior talents, it will be owing to his merit, and to the confidence which they repose in his integrity.”

4. “We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union…”

5. “Liberty is not the right of one, but of all.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Gouverneur Morris was born into wealth and maintained a high social and economic status throughout his life. While exact figures are not available, his highest net worth is estimated to have been equivalent to several million dollars in today’s currency, derived from his family estate and various investments.

Children

Gouverneur Morris married Anne Cary Randolph in 1809, and they had one son, Gouverneur Morris Jr., who continued the family legacy in public service and business.