Date of Birth: April 4, 1810
Zodiac Sign: Aries
Date of Death: June 8, 1888
Biography
James Freeman Clarke was an influential American theologian, author, and Unitarian minister. Born in Hanover, New Hampshire, Clarke was a central figure in the Transcendentalist movement of the 19th century and was known for his progressive views on religion and social reform. He was a Harvard-educated intellectual who sought to reconcile science and religion, and he played a significant role in the establishment of the Free Religious Association. Clarke was also a prolific writer, contributing to various theological and philosophical publications. Among his most notable works are “Ten Great Religions” and “Steps of Belief.” Clarke’s progressive beliefs extended to his support for the abolition of slavery and women’s rights, making him an important figure in both religious and social reform movements of his time.
5 Interesting Facts about James Freeman Clarke
1. James Freeman Clarke was a founder of the Free Religious Association, which aimed to promote a more liberal and scientific approach to religion.
2. He was a close friend and associate of Ralph Waldo Emerson and other key figures in the Transcendentalist movement.
3. Clarke was an advocate for the abolition of slavery and was actively involved in the anti-slavery movement.
4. He supported women’s rights and was an early proponent of women’s suffrage.
5. Clarke’s book “Ten Great Religions” was one of the first comprehensive studies of world religions from a comparative perspective.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from James Freeman Clarke
1. “Conscience is the root of all true courage; if a man would be brave let him obey his conscience.”
2. “We are either progressing or retrograding all the while; there is no such thing as remaining stationary in this life.”
3. “The greatest question of our time is not religion, but religion’s relation to science.”
4. “The best theology is rather a divine life than a divine knowledge.”
5. “Every belief which our minds receive as true, and which our hearts accept as good, becomes a part of our lives, and adds to our power.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
There is no available information on James Freeman Clarke’s net worth, as wealth was not a primary focus of his life and career.
Children
James Freeman Clarke had three children: Lilian Freeman Clarke, Eliot Channing Clarke, and Cora Freeman Clarke.
Relevant Links
1. [James Freeman Clarke – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Freeman_Clarke
3. [Biography on Transcendentalists.com](http://www.transcendentalists.com/james_freeman_clarke.htm
5. [The Free Religious Association](https://www.americanunitarian.org/fra.htm
