James Forten was a young revolutionary who became a successful businessman and civic leader.
Like Forten, you are
- courageous when it counts
- driven by purpose, not comfort
- connected to your community
- a risk-taker with your eye on the prize
James Forten
Visionary
James Forten by an unknown artist, ca. 1818. Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
What You Have in Common
Twenty-First-Century Perspective
With a sweeping understanding of the economy, James Forten built a fortune and then used it to fight slavery. During his life, he was a prominent figure in Philadelphia’s free African American community. Being like James Forten means you are a leader and a team player. You work hard and are generous with others.
James Forten
Teenage Patriot • Self-Made Man • Civic Leader
1766–1842
Pennsylvania
James Forten was a teenage revolutionary. Born free, he chose to support the war as a privateer. He was part of a crew that captured British merchant ships. Forten returned to Philadelphia in time to see George Washington’s troops, including several companies of African American soldiers, marching toward Yorktown. Forten then signed up for a second privateering venture. He was captured by the British navy and held on a prison ship in New York Harbor for seven months.
After the Revolution, Forten returned to Pennsylvania. He earned a personal fortune through his investments in sailmaking, real estate, and maritime ventures. He used that fortune to support Black churches and newspapers. He organized petitions and funded lawsuits to argue that all people were equal and had rights, and to argue against slavery. His actions showed his conviction that life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness belonged to everyone in the new United States.
“It seems almost incredible that the advocates of liberty should conceive the idea of selling a fellow creature to slavery.”
James Forten, Letters from a Man of Colour, 1813. Image: James Forten by an unknown artist, ca. 1818. Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
“He wrote, he spoke, he agitated, and he made alliances with anyone, black and white, who shared his goals.”
Julie Winch, A Gentleman of Color: The Life of James Forten, 2003.
Which Founder Are You?
Take the quiz once to reveal your true historical nature . . . or take it multiple times to discover the many sides of revolution.
Image: Students performing in the Hamilton Education Program.
Explore More with the Gilder Lehrman Institute
The Annotated Declaration
Explore the Declaration of Independence with notes that explain the meaning of certain words or phrases in a document, offering historical context and advice on what to look for when reading the document.
Hamilton Education Program
This program combines theatrical experiences with rigorous historical study and creative expression to make history engaging and accessible to students.
Student Opportunities
The Gilder Lehrman Institute is pleased to offer many opportunities for students throughout the year, encouraging the study of American history and supporting students in their career and research goals.