Robert Morris, b. Jan. 31, 1734, d. May 8, 1806, was an American merchant and revolutionary leader who came to be known as the financier of the American Revolution. After emigrating from England in 1747, he settled in Philadelphia, where he became a partner in Willing, Morris and Co., one of the largest mercantile firms in the British North American colonies. In 1775 he was made a member of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety. A member of the Continental Congress from 1775 until 1778, he viewed the motion for independence in July 1776 as premature and at first voted against it, but in August he signed the Declaration of Independence. He rendered invaluable service on purchasing committees, often using his own firm, which made large profits. In 1781, Congress, in an attempt to bring order to the financial chaos of the new nation, made Morris superintendent of finances. He accepted on the condition that he be allowed to continue his private business dealings and to control all personnel appointments. During his tenure (1781-84), Morris brought greater efficiency into accounting and military purchasing, worked toward the establishment of a national mint, and organized the Bank of North America, the nation's first bank. After leaving office in 1784, Morris was much criticized for becoming the sole American tobacco purchasing agent for the French Farmers' General. An advocate of strong government, he was a member of the Constitutional Convention of 1787. As U.S. senator from Pennsylvania (1789-95) he supported the programs of the Federalist party. Because of overinvestment in western lands, Morris was arrested for debt in 1798 and forced into bankruptcy; after his release (1801) from debtor's prison he lived on his wife's annuity. Harry Ammon Bibliography: Ferguson, J. E., and Cantanzariti, J., eds., The Papers of Robert Morris, 7 vols. (1973-89); Loftin, T. L., Contest for a Capital (1989); Oberholtzer, E. P., Robert Morris: Patriot and Financier (1903; repr. 1969); Ver Steeg, C. L., Robert Morris (1954; repr. 1970). (c) 1996 Grolier, Inc.
Robert Morris |
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