Gerrit Smith
Gerrit Smith: A Life of Advocacy and Activism
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Gerrit Smith was born on March 6, 1797, and is often referred to as Gerrit Smith II. He was a prominent American abolitionist, politician, and philanthropist.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born: March 6, 1797
Died: December 28, 1874
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Gerrit Smith was an American of Dutch descent. He held various professions throughout his life, including politician, lawyer, and abolitionist.
Early Life and Background
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Gerrit Smith was born in Utica, New York, to Peter Smith and Elizabeth Courtlandt. His father was a successful merchant and later became involved in politics. Gerrit's family valued education and encouraged him to pursue his interests in literature and law. He attended Utica Academy (now known as the Utica Free Academy) before moving on to Yale College, where he graduated in 1814.
After completing his studies, Smith began practicing law in New York City. However, he soon became disillusioned with the city's politics and moved back to Utica. There, he focused on his family's business interests while also engaging in local politics.
Major Accomplishments
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Gerrit Smith is perhaps best known for his dedication to the abolitionist movement. He was a vocal advocate for immediate emancipation of slaves and donated over $10 million (approximately $200 million today) to various causes, including the establishment of schools and churches for African Americans. His most notable contribution was offering 320 acres of land in upstate New York to any freed slave willing to settle there.
Smith's involvement in politics extended beyond his support for abolition. He was a presidential elector for the Democratic Party and ran for president himself on two occasions, in 1848 and 1856. Although he never held public office at the federal level, his influence as a politician was significant.
Notable Works or Actions
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In addition to his philanthropic efforts and political career, Gerrit Smith made notable contributions through various written works. He authored several essays and articles on topics such as education, politics, and social reform. Some of his most notable writings include:
"Letter on the Slavery Question" (1842): In this essay, Smith outlined his views on slavery and proposed a plan for gradual emancipation.
"Address to the Free People of Color" (1827): This speech addressed African Americans directly, urging them to take control of their own destiny.
Impact and Legacy
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Gerrit Smith's impact on American history is multifaceted. As an abolitionist, he played a significant role in the fight against slavery. His donation of land to freed slaves in upstate New York provided a safe haven for those seeking freedom from bondage. His involvement in politics helped shape the nation's views on social reform.
Today, Smith is remembered as one of the most influential figures of his time. His commitment to education and social justice continues to inspire people around the world.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Gerrit Smith's quotes often focus on his unwavering dedication to freedom and equality. One notable quote that encapsulates his vision is:
> "We must not, cannot, will not be satisfied with a partial emancipation of the slave; we must aim at an entire abolition."
This statement reflects his unrelenting passion for complete freedom and equality for all people.
Quotes by Gerrit Smith
Gerrit Smith's insights on:
I prefer, in a word, the republican system, because it comes up more nearly to God’s system.
Truth and mercy require the exertion – never the suppression, of man’s noble rights and powers.
God cannot approve of a system of servitude, in which the master is guilty of assuming absolute power – of assuming God’s place and relation towards his fellow-men.
I trust, that your readers will not construe my words to mean, that I would not have gone to a 3 o’clock in the morning session, for the sake of defeating the Nebraska bill.
My rights all spring front an infinitely nobler source – from favor and grace of God.
It is not to be disguised, that a war has broken out between the North and the South. – Political and commercial men are industriously striving to restore peace: but the peace, which they would effect, is superficial, false, and temporary.
But as well may you, when urging a man up-hill with a heavy load upon his back, and with your lash also upon his back, tell him, that be has nothing to do either with the load or the lash.
There is one class of men, whom it especially behoves to be tenacious of the right of free discussion. I mean the poor.