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Lewis Tappan

21quotes

Lewis Tappan: A Life of Passion and Activism


Full Name and Common Aliases


Lewis Tappan was born on October 23, 1788, in Southington, Connecticut. He is commonly known as one of the most prominent abolitionists of his time.

Birth and Death Dates


October 23, 1788 – June 21, 1873

Nationality and Profession(s)


American, Abolitionist, Merchant, Publisher, and Philanthropist

Lewis Tappan was a true Renaissance man, embodying the spirit of activism, entrepreneurship, and social justice. He dedicated his life to fighting against slavery in the United States, and his unwavering commitment continues to inspire people today.

Early Life and Background


Tappan's family moved to New York City when he was just four years old. His father, Benjamin Tappan, was a skilled craftsman who eventually became a successful merchant. Lewis's exposure to the harsh realities of slavery began at an early age, as his family employed African American servants in their household.

Growing up in a city with strong abolitionist sentiments, Tappan developed a deep empathy for enslaved people and their struggles. His exposure to radical thinkers like William Lloyd Garrison also influenced his views on social justice.

Major Accomplishments


Tappan's life was marked by numerous significant achievements:

Co-founder of the American Anti-Slavery Society: In 1833, Tappan co-founded the society with influential abolitionists like William Lloyd Garrison and Arthur Tappan (his brother). This organization played a pivotal role in mobilizing public opinion against slavery.
 The North Star Publication: Lewis Tappan was instrumental in establishing The North Star, an influential abolitionist newspaper founded by Frederick Douglass. The publication provided a platform for the voices of former slaves to be heard and helped shape public opinion on the issue.
Underground Railroad Activism: Tappan's commitment to helping enslaved people escape to freedom led him to collaborate with other abolitionists in operating clandestine networks, known as "stations," along the Underground Railroad.

Notable Works or Actions


Some of Lewis Tappan's notable works and actions include:

Co-authoring The Anti-Slavery Almanac: This publication provided important statistics and information about slavery to those seeking to understand its impact on American society.
Funding and supporting abolitionist activities: Through his business acumen and philanthropic efforts, Tappan provided critical financial support for various anti-slavery initiatives.

Impact and Legacy


Lewis Tappan's contributions to the abolitionist movement had a lasting impact:

Changing public opinion: His tireless advocacy helped shift American attitudes toward slavery, paving the way for its eventual prohibition.
Empowering marginalized voices: By providing platforms like The North Star, Tappan amplified the voices of former slaves and other marginalized groups.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Lewis Tappan is widely quoted and remembered today due to his unwavering commitment to social justice. His determination in the face of adversity continues to inspire people across generations:

Courageous advocacy: Throughout his life, Tappan demonstrated an unshakeable resolve to challenge oppressive systems.
* Collaborative spirit: He worked closely with other abolitionists and activists, recognizing that collective action was essential for creating meaningful change.

In the end, Lewis Tappan's remarkable story serves as a testament to the transformative power of compassion and conviction.

Quotes by Lewis Tappan

We will persevere, come life or death.
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We will persevere, come life or death.
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One of the men attached to the prison was the occasion of great amusement on the part of the prisoners, as well as the spectators, by taking a large lump of ice to show these strangers from the tropics.
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One of the men attached to the prison was the occasion of great amusement on the part of the prisoners, as well as the spectators, by taking a large lump of ice to show these strangers from the tropics.
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The curiosity to see the prisoners appears to be unabated.
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The curiosity to see the prisoners appears to be unabated.
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Two or three of the men, besides one of the little girls, are natives of Congo, which is on the coast just south of the equator.
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Two or three of the men, besides one of the little girls, are natives of Congo, which is on the coast just south of the equator.
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We do not believe that any went away with the same views, and the same feelings in relation to any one in whose veins courses African blood.
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We do not believe that any went away with the same views, and the same feelings in relation to any one in whose veins courses African blood.
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The prisoners eyed the clothes some time, and laughed a good deal among themselves before they put them on.
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The prisoners eyed the clothes some time, and laughed a good deal among themselves before they put them on.
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There is too much theology in the Church now, and too little of the Gospel.
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There is too much theology in the Church now, and too little of the Gospel.
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#littles
The event of the landing of these brethren upon our shores is to be, not without its beneficial effect, as well to the colored population of this country, as it promises to be to ill-fated Africa.
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The event of the landing of these brethren upon our shores is to be, not without its beneficial effect, as well to the colored population of this country, as it promises to be to ill-fated Africa.
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One of the men attached to the prison was the occasion of great amusement on the part of the prisoners, as well as the spectators, by taking a large lump of ice to show these strangers from the tropics
"
One of the men attached to the prison was the occasion of great amusement on the part of the prisoners, as well as the spectators, by taking a large lump of ice to show these strangers from the tropics
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#men
Indeed, the whole company, although thin in flesh, and generally of slight forms, and limbs, especially, are as good looking and intelligent a body of men as we usually meet with.
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Indeed, the whole company, although thin in flesh, and generally of slight forms, and limbs, especially, are as good looking and intelligent a body of men as we usually meet with.
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