Samuel Hopkins

Date of Birth: September 17, 1721

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: December 20, 1803

Biography

Samuel Hopkins was an influential American clergyman and theologian during the 18th century. Born in Waterbury, Connecticut, he was a prominent figure in the early American religious landscape. Hopkins graduated from Yale College in 1741 and was deeply influenced by the Great Awakening and the teachings of Jonathan Edwards. He was ordained in 1743 and served as a minister in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, and later in Newport, Rhode Island, where he spent the majority of his career. Hopkins is best known for his development of the theological system known as Hopkinsianism, a form of Calvinism that emphasized the disinterested benevolence and moral perfectionism. He was also a strong advocate for the abolition of slavery and wrote several influential pamphlets on the subject. His legacy includes his contributions to American theology and his early support for social justice issues.

5 Interesting Facts about Samuel Hopkins

1. Samuel Hopkins was a student of the renowned theologian Jonathan Edwards, whose ideas significantly influenced his own theological development.

2. He was one of the earliest American clergymen to publicly denounce slavery, making him a pioneer in the abolitionist movement.

3. Hopkins’ theological writings contributed to the development of the “New Divinity,” a movement within American Calvinism.

4. He served as a pastor in Newport, Rhode Island, for nearly three decades, where he became a well-respected community leader.

5. Hopkins’ work “Dialogues Concerning the Slavery of the Africans” (1776) was one of the first American publications to argue for the immediate emancipation of slaves.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Samuel Hopkins

1. “True virtue must be disinterested benevolence.”

2. “The love of God is the foundation of all virtue and morality.”

3. “We are called to seek the welfare of others, even at the expense of our own.”

4. “The abolition of slavery is a moral imperative that we must not ignore.”

5. “Every human being has an inherent worth and dignity bestowed by their Creator.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As a clergyman in the 18th century, Samuel Hopkins did not amass personal wealth. His highest net worth is not documented, but his contributions were more in the realm of intellectual and social capital rather than financial gain.