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James Forten was born on September 2, 1766, in
Philadelphia, Province of Pennsylvania, British America. -
At the age of 10, James Forten began to work at a sail loft to help support his family financially since his father had die previously. -
At the age of 14, James Forten serves as a power boy on the privateer ship Royal Louis. He is then, captured by the British. He is later released from jail after 7 months. -
After the war, James Forten returns to Philadelphia and returns to work at the sail loft owned by Robert Bridges. -
James Forten becomes the foreman of the sail loft and later on buys the business and becomes one of the most successful sailmakers in Philadelphia. -
James Forten became an active member in the abolitionist movement. He helped using his wealth and influence to support the end of slavery. -
James Forten helped organize the Convention of Color, which opposes the American Colonization Society's efforts to relocate free African Americans to Africa. -
James Forten plays a significant role in founding the American Anti- Slavery Society alongside other abolitionist like William Lloyd and Arthur Tappan. -
James Forten passes away on March 4 in Philadelphia leaving behind a big and important legacy. His children and grandchildren continue his work in the abolitionist movement.