Widely known philanthropist and social reformer of the mid-nineteenth century. As a nationally prominent and influential abolitionist, he played a critical role in the operations of the Underground Railroad. Gerrit Smith sold farm tracts for one dollar each to 3,000 poor African Americans, many of whom he had helped escape into freedom, with approximately 140,000 acres being transferred between 1846 and 1850. He was also an advocate for women's rights, and was highly regarded in the early years of the movement, having been mentioned in Stanton's address at the Seneca Falls Convention of 1848. He was an unsuccessful candidate for President of the United States in 1848, 1856 and 1860. He also served in the United States Congress, and was the only avowed abolitionist to do so.
Widely known philanthropist and social reformer of the mid-nineteenth century. As a nationally prominent and influential abolitionist, he played a critical role in the operations of the Underground Railroad. Gerrit Smith sold farm tracts for one dollar each to 3,000 poor African Americans, many of whom he had helped escape into freedom, with approximately 140,000 acres being transferred between 1846 and 1850. He was also an advocate for women's rights, and was highly regarded in the early years of the movement, having been mentioned in Stanton's address at the Seneca Falls Convention of 1848. He was an unsuccessful candidate for President of the United States in 1848, 1856 and 1860. He also served in the United States Congress, and was the only avowed abolitionist to do so.
Bio by: Gerrit R Wynkoop
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