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Birth and Family
James Forten was Born September 2nd 1766 in Delaware Township, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Son of Thomas Fortune and Margaret Weymouth Brother of Abigail Forten He was also the grandson of slaves. -
The War
James Forten served on a privateer ship during the Revolutionary War in 1781. He was captured by the British and imprisoned on the Jersey. After a prisoner exchange, James Forten was then released by the British in 1782. He walked 80 miles to his home in Philadelphia. Most of the walk he was barefoot making it a miserable challenge, but it was worth it. -
Growing up
James Forten formative years were spent in Philadelphia, and he attended Anthony Benezet’s Quaker school for African American children. By the time he turned eight years old, he was working for Robert Bridges’s sail loft. This is where his father worked as well. The following year, his father was the victim of an unfortunate boating accident and died. This tragedy resulted in nine-year-old James having to take on additional work to support his family. -
Steps to Success
During his early teens, he worked as a powder boy during the Revolutionary War on the Royal Lewis sailing ship. After being captured by the British army, he was released and returned home to resume his previous job. Pleased with his work and dedication, he was appointed to the foreman’s position in the loft. By 1798, Bridges decided to retire and wanted Forten to remain in charge of the loft. Ev -
Interests
Over time, James Forten became interested in politics and avidly campaigned for and supported temperance, women’s suffrage, and equal rights for African Americans. In 1800, he was the leader in organizing a petition that called for Congress to emancipate all slaves. His activism was further recognized when he wrote and published a pamphlet denouncing the Pennsylvania legislature for prohibiting the immigration of freed black slaves from other states. -
Joining Richard Allen
In 1817, Forten joined with Richard Allen. Richrd Allen was the found of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, all this was to for the convention of color. -
Last few years
After joining forces with Richard Allen, James Forten continued to be a prominent figure in the abolitionism movement, actively campaigning against slavery through writing for "The Liberator" newspaper, using his wealth to support the cause, and co-founding the "Convention of Color" with Richar Allen to advocate for the rights of African Americans in the United States. -
Death
James Forten died on March 4, 1842. His early years had been devoted to providing for his widowed mother, his middle years towards acquiring a vast economic fortune and rectifying the brutal injustices that had been perpetrated upon his fellow African Americans, poor people, and women.
James Forten died a hero trying to help many African Americans in the Unites States, and mainly fight for freedom. He used his wealth for good. He continues to inspire people until this day.