Date of Birth: October 3, 1804
Zodiac Sign: Libra
Date of Death: February 25, 1878
Biography
Townsend Harris was an influential American businessman and diplomat, recognized for his pivotal role in opening Japan to foreign trade in the mid-19th century. Born in 1804 in Sandy Hill, New York, Harris began his career as a successful merchant. His business acumen and interest in foreign affairs led to his appointment as the first United States Consul General to Japan in 1856. Harris negotiated the Treaty of Amity and Commerce (Harris Treaty) with Japan, which marked the end of Japan’s period of isolation and opened up several Japanese ports to American trade. His efforts laid the foundation for modern US-Japan relations and significantly impacted global commerce.
5 Interesting Facts about Townsend Harris
1. Townsend Harris was self-educated, having received no formal schooling beyond the basics.
2. He founded the first free public high school in New York City, known today as Townsend Harris High School.
3. Harris was an advocate for the humane treatment of prisoners and worked to improve the conditions of American sailors imprisoned in foreign lands.
4. He spent 18 months negotiating the Harris Treaty with Japan, which was signed in 1858.
5. He was known for his deep respect for Japanese culture and customs, which helped him gain the trust of Japanese officials during his negotiations.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Townsend Harris
1. “Commerce is the great civilizer; we exchange ideas when we exchange fabrics.”
2. “The best diplomacy consists in the avoidance of war.”
3. “I have found the Japanese to be a people of profound intellect and deep courtesy.”
4. “Mutual respect is the foundation of all successful negotiations.”
5. “Education is the cornerstone of a free and prosperous society.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
The highest net worth Townsend Harris achieved is not well-documented, but his influence and success as a businessman and diplomat were substantial.
Children
Townsend Harris did not have any children.
Relevant Links
1. [Wikipedia: Townsend Harris](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Townsend_Harris
5. [Find a Grave: Townsend Harris](https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/6749732/townsend-harris
